The existence of a nuclear family is to a large extent dictated by nature. According to Aristotle (Politics, Book 1 part 2), “there must be a union of those who cannot exist without each other; namely, of male and female, that the race may continue (and this is a union which is formed, not of deliberate purpose, but because, in common with other animals and with plants, mankind have a natural desire to leave behind them an image of themselves).” However, families are also economic units that share consumption, coordinate work activities, accumulate wealth, and invest in children. Indeed, Aristotle adds, “The family is the association established by nature for the supply of men’s everyday wants.”