Of all actions of a man's life, his marriage does least concern other people, yet of all actions of our life tis most meddled with by other people.

John Selden’s quote, "Of all actions of a man's life, his marriage does least concern other people, yet of all actions of our life tis most meddled with by other people," highlights the paradoxical nature of marriage in society. Selden is pointing out that, on one hand, marriage is a deeply personal decision—an intimate bond between two individuals. As such, it should be a matter that concerns only the people directly involved. However, he observes that, despite its personal nature, marriage often becomes the subject of public scrutiny, judgment, and even interference, making it one of the most meddled with aspects of life by external parties.

The phrase "does least concern other people" reflects the idea that marriage is a private matter, and its dynamics—whether happy or troubled—are largely personal. In an ideal world, Selden suggests, society would respect the privacy and autonomy of married individuals, allowing them to manage their relationship without outside influence. However, the reality is that society often feels entitled to judge, critique, or even offer unsolicited advice about a couple’s choices and decisions, turning marriage into a public spectacle.

The second part of the quote, "tis most meddled with by other people," exposes the contradiction where something that should be private becomes subject to social interference. Whether through gossip, moral judgments, or external pressures regarding gender roles, marriage often becomes the focus of societal norms that dictate how couples should behave, what they should value, and how they should live. This contradiction reflects the tension between individual autonomy and societal expectations.

The origin of the quote lies in Selden’s reflections on social norms and personal freedom. A lawyer and scholar during the 17th century, Selden lived in an era where social conventions were rigid, and personal matters like marriage were heavily influenced by religion and public opinion. His critique of society’s intrusion into private life, especially in the context of marriage, is a commentary on how personal freedoms are often compromised by the weight of social expectations and collective norms.