Social group homogamy in marriage in ireland

Abstract

Precis: The extent of homogamy in Irish marriages, using a relatively simple unitary indicator of status, namely social group, is examined here. Because of the limitations imposed by the data used ? national statistics ? some time is taken to discuss the problems involved in the classification of occupations, particularly female occupations, both in general and in Ireland. The data suggest, however, that homogamy, based on social group, does operate. The relative importance of birthplace, education, propinquity and social origin were not considered at this stage.