Nobody, I understand what you are saying. And I mostly agree.
But I do know plenty of adults who have less life experience than me. My in-laws are a classic case and I wouldn’t trust them for advice in life. My MIL wasn’t crazy about me when she first met me (and later told me her reasons – all that had NOTHING to do with what my husband would care about in a spouse). I am happy that my husband chose his own path, rather than following his parents.
I guess I was a never a teenager who “knew everything.” I always respected the advice of my mother – it doesn’t mean I always followed it, but I always listened with an open ear. I always thought about what she was saying and how I felt about it.
I agree that guidance is important, but at a certain point, the person getting married has to make the decision. If someone isn’t mature enough to decide WHO to marry, how are they mature enough to get married?
I don’t understand not discussing this with your friends – they might have a different insight into what your parents are looking for that isn’t right or what you are looking for that is detrimental. You just have to make sure to talk to the right friends who can give constructive advice.