I think it's a good idea for young people to date because it helps them learn about themselves more. For instance, you might learn that the person you thought was Ideal has a different and unyielding version of your future together. You don't want to be considering couple's therapy because you're too afraid to leave and find someone who's a better match. In your 20's too much about a person changes and you shouldn't stifle someone else's self-development. It may have sounded like I was condoning casual hookups in my previous comment. That's not the case. Everyone you spend time on should have some potential for a joint future, but that doesn't mean you should lock down the first potential person you meet. I'm old enough to have seen people go through more relationships than they can count on their hands just because they were afraid to be alone. In the end, that kind of behavior hurts everyone and stifles personal growth for all involved.