Through the comparative study of the differences between Chinese and western spouse selection, it is acknowledged that the differences existing in Chinese and western marriage beliefs can not be avoided. Although a lot of common features of euphemisms are shared by the two cultures, differences between them must be noticed if better understanding of the unique social values of the two cultures is to be achieved. This thesis may attract their interest in the comparative study between Chinese and western spouse selection and arouse the cultural awareness in cross-culture researches.源'自:吹冰`!论~文'网www.chuibin.com

1.2 Structure of the Thesis

The Thesis is pided into four parts. The first part presents the introduction of the significance and purpose of the paper. The second part mainly illustrates the differences from four aspects. They are differences in interpersonal relationship; in masculinity and femininity, in uncertainty avoidance and in inpidualism and collectivism. The third part lays emphasis on the reasons of differences between Chinese and western countries, including different natural environment, the social and cultural beliefs, the history and traditional moral values. The fourth part is the conclusion, which is a summary of the significance of knowing the different marriage in different countries. 

2. Literature Review

2.1 Studies on spouse selection 

Who will marry whom? Why does this person choose that one rather than others? The choice is conducted by some invisible rules and principles, which governed by social, historical, economic, moral and cultural factors. It is impossible for an inpidual to escape from those rules.

In the west, some famous sociologists have made great contributions to the study of mate selection.