What is the point of dating?

There is much tension in the realm of dating when it comes to "hooking up." In today's culture, it seems like more and more often we find ourselves hearing stories of promiscuity and unconscious and, for lack of a better word, immoral acts. Busted Halo explores this growing phenomenon, wondering first off, "What is the definition of 'hooking up?'" The majority of those surveyed believe that hooking up constitutes as sexual intercourse. Then, they explore why this is. Are these one-night stands simply a precursor for divorce? A way to ease the blunt reality that not all relationships are built in mutual understanding and communication? I think that appropriate dating itself isn't a set-up for divorce. We are only looking to get to know one another, learn what we like and dislike, before running to the altar. Yet the hook up culture does promote a negative influence on sexuality. Sexual intercourse is not merely for strangers to enjoy self-gratification, but rather to form an unbreakable connection between a couple in love. I think that we need to have a stronger emphasis in our society on how sex before marriage isn't sinful if you do it for the right reasons (i.e. out of love, honesty, commitment, and compassion). If you do it merely for pleasure with anyone you can get your hands on, then that can be seen as promiscuous.