Damn. I thought this was going to be about polygamy, which I
> strongly support -- for other people.
>
Agreed. To the extent that I can support the state licensure of marriage - which I think is a stupid idea - I can't think of any legitimate business the state has imposing a maximum.
Here in Gaza, where men can realistically aspire to polygamy, I have yet to meet one who actually does. While I've run across a few old-timers with more than one wife, younger men tend to think one is enough - which doubtlessly has something to do with a man's singular obligation to provide for his family.
-- "Hige sceal þe heardra, heorte þe cenre, mod sceal þe mare, þe ure mægen lytlað."