15 Things People Get Wrong About Amish Communities

The Amish are a fascinating group often misunderstood by those outside their communities. 

With 557 settlements and a population of 345,475 in 2020, the Amish are a considerable part of American life. This number is expected to nearly triple by 2050, reaching around 912,258 people.¹ 

As their population grows, it’s important to clear up some common myths and misconceptions about their culture. 

1. Myth: The Amish Reject All Modern Technology

• Debunked: While the Amish do avoid certain modern technologies, such as cars and televisions, they do use some modern conveniences selectively. They may use battery-powered tools, generators, and even the internet for business purposes, provided these tools don’t disrupt their community values.
• The choice to use or reject technology is based on its impact on their way of life and community cohesion.

2. Myth: All Amish People Live in Isolated Communities

• Debunked: While many Amish communities are rural and maintain traditional lifestyles, they are not entirely isolated. The Amish live in various parts of the United States and Canada, including areas that are integrated with modern society.
• They interact with non-Amish people, conduct business, and travel, albeit in ways that align with their values.

3. Myth: The Amish are Uneducated & Reject Formal Education

• Debunked: The Amish value education but typically limit it to what they believe is necessary for their way of life. Most Amish children attend school up to the 8th grade, focusing on practical skills and basic academics.
• After that, education often shifts to vocational training, which equips them with skills needed for their community and work. (ref)

4. Myth: The Amish Practice Strict Dress Codes for Religious Reasons

• Debunked: The traditional Amish dress is not just about religion but also about community identity and simplicity. Their clothing reflects a desire to avoid drawing attention to oneself and to emphasize humility and equality among community members.
• The specific styles and colors are more about maintaining cultural traditions than about strict religious mandates.

5. Myth: The Amish Live in the Past & Reject All Forms of Change

• Debunked: The Amish are selective about change and adapt to new circumstances in ways that align with their values. They carefully evaluate changes to ensure they do not disrupt their community’s values or way of life.
• This means they may embrace certain modern conveniences and practices that support their community without compromising their core principles.

6. Myth: The Amish Don’t Use Cars at All

• Debunked: The Amish are known for their use of horse-drawn buggies, but they do not entirely avoid cars. Many Amish families use (not “own”) cars, which they use for business or emergencies, often operated by non-Amish drivers.
• The primary reason for using buggies is to maintain a simpler lifestyle and to avoid the social distractions that cars can bring. (ref)

7. Myth: Amish Communities are Uniform in Their Practices

• Debunked: There are different Amish affiliations and sects, each with varying practices and levels of conservatism. For example, the Old Order Amish may adhere to more traditional practices compared to the New Order Amish, who might embrace a few more modern conveniences.
• These differences reflect the diversity within Amish communities.

8. Myth: Amish People Are Unfriendly or Hostile toward Outsiders

• Debunked: The Amish are generally known for being friendly and welcoming to outsiders, though they may prefer to maintain their privacy (no photos or selfies!).
• Their interactions are guided by principles of humility and respect, and they are often open to sharing their culture and traditions with those who show genuine interest and respect.

9. Myth: The Amish are Opposed to All Forms of Medical Care

• Debunked: The Amish are not opposed to modern medicine but prefer to use it in ways that align with their values. They often seek medical care when needed but may prefer home remedies or natural treatments for minor ailments.
• Their approach to healthcare links a balance between traditional practices and modern medicine. (ref)

10. Myth: Amish Women Are Oppressed

• Debunked: The roles of Amish women are often misunderstood. While traditional gender roles are part of Amish life, many Amish women have major influence within their families and communities. They manage household duties, participate in community events, and have roles in decision-making processes.
• Their roles are seen as integral to maintaining their community’s values and traditions.

11. Myth: The Amish Don’t Pay Taxes

• Debunked: The Amish do pay taxes, including property taxes and sales taxes, like other citizens. However, they may be exempt from some federal benefits programs, such as Social Security, due to their religious beliefs.
• This exemption is based on their preference to support each other within their community rather than rely on government assistance. (ref)

12. Myth: Amish are All Farmers

• Debunked: While farming is a traditional and common occupation among the Amish, not all Amish are farmers. Many Amish communities have diversified into other trades and businesses, including carpentry, construction, and small-scale manufacturing.
• This diversification helps support their communities and adapt to changing economic conditions.

13. Myth: The Amish are Anti-Government

• Debunked: The Amish are not anti-government. They choose to live separately from mainstream society but still adhere to local, state, and federal laws, including paying taxes and following zoning regulations.
• They focus on their community and religious life while respecting laws that don’t conflict with their beliefs.

14. Myth: The Amish are Inbred

• Debunked: The belief that the Amish are inbred stems from misunderstandings about their close-knit communities. While they often marry within their community, they do not sanction inbreeding.
• Amish communities promote genetic diversity by marrying within various Amish groups and are increasingly aware of genetic health to manage hereditary conditions.

15. Myth: The Amish Don’t Eat at Restaurants

• Debunked: A common belief is that the Amish never eat at restaurants, but that’s not true. While the Amish often prefer to cook and eat at home or at community gatherings, they do sometimes visit restaurants. They might go out to eat, especially when traveling or for special occasions.(ref)

Understanding the Amish requires looking beyond the myths and stereotypes. The Amish community is diverse and adaptable, with practices rooted in tradition but also evolving over time. 

Source:

1. Statista