"If polygyny combined with women's rights, I bet we'd see more promises to wash the dishes"

This seemingly flippant article on why polygamy is acceptable actually provides insights into the condition of women in communities affected by crime (or war). A large % of men go to jail and the women have less men to choose mates from, increasing the relative bargaining power of the remaining men. Using statistics from the Afro-American community, Tim Hartford provides an excellent peek into the decision-making of men and women who gain / lose power for no fault of theirs.

And yes, reg the Chinese bare branches - simple, those single men would be sent to war. At least, that is the theory I have read about. The Chinese govt has to pick up quarrels with neighbours if those restless men are to shift their attention and energy from internal issues.