So, I'm not questioning the idea of a long-term monogamous relationship. I'm sure those work for a lot of people. What I am questioning is the institution of marriage itself. People's usual defence of marriage is "Well it affords couples more protections/rights." Wouldn't it make more sense to make those protections/rights available to people who want to share their love without necessarily getting the government involved in validating it?

To me, marriage says "I love you so much, I want to get the government involved and sign a contract with you." I don't want to repeat myself but to make it clear I have nothing against people making a commitment to each other, I just question the government's involvement in said commitment. I've heard some people say that's how they know it's "real" which to me is bonkers.