It’s all too easy to stereotype all Amish people as backward, prudish, and completely disconnected from modern society. However, this view is not only inaccurate but damaging to Amish communities and our relationship with them. To help undo some of that harm, we’ve compiled 18 false beliefs about the Amish we need to correct.
The Amish Reject All Modern Technology
Many of us believe that the Amish reject all forms of modern technology. However, the truth is that many Amish communities, especially New Order Amish communities, use some kinds of technology for health, safety, and business purposes. These communities are more concerned with how technology impacts family and community cohesion rather than being against it in its entirety.
Amish People Are Completely Isolated from the Outside World
While we may have the sense that Amish people are totally isolated from the world around them, they actually rely on outside communities for many of their needs. For example, they frequently meet with non-Amish people to sell goods, access healthcare services, and for some social reasons.
The Amish Don’t Pay Taxes
Another common misconception about the Amish is that they don’t pay taxes. The reality is that Amish people pay income, property, and sales taxes just like any other citizen. However, their religious beliefs do make them exempt from Social Security taxes.
All Amish Live on Farms
While it’s true that farming plays a significant role in Amish business and culture, it’s not true that all Amish people live on farms. Amish people work in a variety of different roles, including construction, retail, manufacturing, and even businesses that cater to tourists.
Amish Education Ends in Eighth Grade
There is a widespread myth that Amish education comes to a complete end at eighth grade. However, according to Amish America, the truth is that while Amish children usually stop attending school after eighth grade, they often continue learning through methods such as reading, mentorships, and apprenticeships.
Amish People Only Travel By Horse and Buggy
It’s easy to believe that all Amish people get around solely via horse and buggy. However, this is not their only means of transportation. Many Amish people use bicycles, scooters, and even rollerblades. Some communities also hire drivers or use public transportation when they need to cover large distances.
The Amish Lifestyle Hasn’t Changed in Centuries
It’s a common misconception that the Amish have remained unchanged for centuries. In truth, Amish communities are constantly changing and adapting to changes in society and the economy while doing their best to abide by their key values.
The Amish Are a Homogeneous Group
Many people mistakenly believe that all Amish communities are the same. However, there is actually significant diversity within the Amish. For example, they can differ widely based on whether they are affiliated with the Old Order, New Order, or other affiliations.
Amish Women Are Completely Subservient to Men
It’s true that Amish society is patriarchal and male-dominated. However, it’s a myth that women have no rights, value, or real responsibilities within their communities. Women play crucial roles in Amish communities, families, and sometimes in businesses, too.
The Amish Cannot Leave Their Community
Some people think that Amish people are completely forbidden from leaving their communities. But the truth is that they can and do leave fairly regularly, especially during and after rumspringa. However, those who decide to be baptized into the Amish church and leave later are likely to be shunned.
Amish People Condemn All Forms of Modern Healthcare
Contrary to popular belief, Amish people are not opposed to all forms of medicine and modern healthcare. While these beliefs vary by community, Amish Baskets states that many Amish people do use modern medical services when necessary.
The Amish Have No Interaction With Government
Some people think that Amish people never interact with the government or American politics. However, they actually regularly interact with the government when it comes to matters that affect their communities, such as schooling and zoning. They sometimes also vote in local, state, and national elections.
Amish Practices Are the Same Across America
It’s not true that Amish practices and beliefs are consistent among all communities in America. In fact, significant variations in dress codes, farming, and business practices, religious services, and technology can be observed in different communities.
The Amish Language Is an Ancient, Unchanging Dialect
According to Amish Baskets, most Amish communities primarily speak Pennsylvania Dutch, which is a dialect of German. However, this language has evolved and adapted significantly over time. Amish children also learn English at school and sometimes speak High German during religious services.
The Amish Are Completely Self-Sufficient
While you may have the sense that Amish people are totally self-sufficient and isolated from the economics of the outside world, this is not accurate. While they do have a high degree of self-sufficiency, they regularly engage in trade and commerce with non-Amish individuals.
Rumspringa Is a Time of Wild Rebellion for Amish Youth
Rumspringa is often thought of as a time when young Amish people go wild and break Amish rules. But in reality, while it is a time when they have greater freedom to explore the non-Amish world, they often choose to stay respectful of their culture in their decisions and actions.
Joining the Amish Church Is an Irreversible Decision
Some people may think that once you join the Amish church, it’s impossible to leave. However, while joining the Amish church is considered a significant decision and lifelong commitment, it is possible to leave if you’re willing to face shunning and other social consequences.
The Amish Are Uneducated Beyond Basic Skills
Many people believe that because formal Amish education ends quite early, Amish people are uneducated beyond basic skills. However, their education is rich in skills such as math, writing, and reading. Amish people also often continue learning through apprenticeships and mentorships after their formal education ends.