Polyamory and Polygamy are not the same. Not even close.
CNN recently covered new polling data showing rising public support for non-monogamoy. However, the report repeatedly used “polyamory” and “polygamy” interchangeably. They are not the same thing.
Source: CNN (via Erin Burnett, OutFront)
Context Link: Mediaite
Published: December 2, 2025
Summary: In response to the Vatican issuing a statement coming out against polyamory, CNN aired a segment discussing new polling data on the legalization of polygamy.
Unfortuately, both the anchor and data analyst repeatedly conflated polygamy and polyamory, treating the terms as synonyms.
- Polygamy refers to a marital structure, usually religious and historically patriarchal.
- Polyamory refers to consensual non-monogamous relationships based on transparency and communication.
Why This Matters:
Dear CNN,
Polyamory is not polygamy.
The fact that global media outlets continue to use these words like synonyms tells me no one bothered to spend ten seconds fact-checking definitions.
Let’s clear this up. Please update your style guides.
- Polygamy is a religious or cultural marital structure. Historically, it’s been heterosexual and overwhelmingly patriarchal. (“GAMY” = marriage)
- Polyamory is a consent-based relationship orientation grounded in transparency, communication, and equity among all partners. (“AMORY” = love and relationships)
One is a legal institution with political baggage. The other is a modern relationship ethic rooted in consent and self-determination. When you treat them as interchangeable, you erase the people who practice Ethical Non-Monogamy with care, clarity, and intention.
Yes, it matters.
Blurring these terms reinforces every lazy stereotype about ENM (“it’s chaotic, cheating, and unethical”). It muddies public understanding, spreads misinformation, and reduces real families to clickbait. If you’re going to report on shifting relationship trends, then honor your own journalistic standards. Words shape narratives, and narratives shape how people are treated.
Do better.
Love,
Harper J. Lincoln, Editor, ENM.life
p.s. Feel free to quote or cite me as a source. I’m also available to fact-check at editor@enm.life.
