Dating: What's the Point?

To me, dating is an essential part of building relationships. I see dating as a great way to meet new people and essentially create new friendships and potential romantic, committed, relationships. I disagree with the statement that today's form of dating is "practice for divorce" because not all people practice this prevelant irresponsible form of dating. Yes, it is definitely true that dating has changed and today's culture considers a random "hook-up" as a more efficient way to meet someone than to have an intelligent conversation' but, some young people date respectfully of themselves and of others. When individuals are participating in countless random hook-ups and never take the time to develop real relationships, than I can see where the instability and inconsistancy could lead to a future divorce. However, dating- as in going out with a person and having real conversation and interaction, is a good way to practice monogomy. Dating one person at a time and seeing how the relationship grows or fizzles not only can help one get to know another, but also help to get to know oneself.