Are the Amish hypocrites?

A lot of commenters are calling the Amish hypocrites after my recent video on how Amish keep food cool. So are they right? Aren't the Amish supposed to "shun" technology?
My name is Erik Wesner and I'm not Amish. Back in 2004, I met the Amish while selling books. Since then, I've visited 5,000+ Amish homes & dozens of Amish communities. I run the Amish America website. More: amishamerica.com/
Watch 3 Ways Amish Keep Food Cold: • 3 Ways Amish Keep Food...
Images: Don Burke (www.flickr.com/photos/ozarkin..., Jim Halverson, S.I., David Marvitz ( / david.marvitz )
Video: Michael Pilkinton (Amish of Ethridge, TN - profile.php?... videvo.net

[@SageandStoneHomestead]

We live near an Amish man who is paralyzed. Forever he has used a regular arm-powered wheelchair while manning his hardware/feed store. The last time we went to buy rabbit feed I saw he has an electric wheelchair now. His quality of life seems so much better now. The electric chair allows him to provide and function so much better. ❤ I'm pretty sure he charges it in his phone shed.

[@AmishAmerica]

Great example showing they are not absolutely rigid with special cases. If there's a special need, churches will adapt to it. I'm not saying all will do so in the same way, but this is a good example

[@ThePanda5001]

Good. I'm glad he got an electric wheelchair. I have a mobility scooter myself and I will agree, it has improved my life vastly!!

[@SageandStoneHomestead]

@@ThePanda5001 I'm so glad!! ❤

[@qrplife]

you don’t have to be Amish to see that much of the technology of the modern world is a net-negative for civilized communities.

[@rmkenney]

Children shouldn't even be on the internet, period. Plus, I'm not so sure that most Adults should be on the internet!

[@hilltopgypsy]

@@rmkenney Yeah, but you should!?!

[@rmkenney]

@@hilltopgypsy Sometimes I'm wondering why I waste so much time here on The Infestation(tm) :-D

[@blackrocks8413]

@@rmkenney We are doing just fine here, on the net, and learning and discussing.

[@riggs20]

I think technology is a tool with no inherent good or bad to it. It’s how we use it. As in a knife can be used to chop up an apple or to hurt someone. The knife itself is neutral. It’s our human nature that worries me.

[@jspyrogram]

I’m a driver for Amish. I totally respect their choices and I’ve made a lot of good friends with them.

[@scruffyscrubs5468]

I have great respect for their lifestyle...most of it anyways. They will be the ones that will get through the food shortage and be survivors. We can learn a lot from the Amish! Thank you for your videos.

[@AmishAmerica]

Thanks! Glad you found the channel:)

[@choochalah]

@@AmishAmerica question: I have heard that with food shortages, people have been stealing cows and chickens. do you know if the Amish are prepared to defend their farms if people come for their resources?

[@brucestorey917]

@@choochalah there will be no confrontations. The Amish will still survive.

[@charlesblanton1008]

Given the rising prices, the general lack of money by so many who are unwilling to work the many jobs available (have fast food restaurants paying north of $15.00/hr and offering hiring bonuses, still not able to maintain normal hours due to lack of staff), and the fact that a lot of this is self imposed(sorry, it just is, open the damn pipeline, lets get independent again, potato doesn't get to just blame it all on Putin), I don't see a major food shortage happening.

[@littlebitofhope1489]

@@brucestorey917 Support your claim.

[@_ashB]

Watching these videos, it feels like (if you skipped over the religious aspect) half of Amish culture could almost be summed up as "technological minimalism" and "off-grid living", to put it in fancier modern-sounding terms.

[@jiggsborah7041]

I'm also a Christian and I really admire the Amish. I am South African. I have watched many documentaries about the Amish. What I don't understand is WHY people constantly attack them and their way of life. I feel that their ways put them light years ahead of the rest of the United States. The United States has been declining for some time now and this is because they have abandoned the beliefs that brought them so much. There is no longer any kind of morality and this is manifest in the people today. I say that the Amish don't impose their ways or their beliefs on others so go watch your neighbors committing adultery etc and leave clean living gentle folks alone with their faith in the omnipotent and almighty Father.

[@jiggsborah7041]

@@deebrown6941... that's the way things were from antiquity. Hedonistic behavior is and was a natural descent in all human societies all through time. The cycle goes like this. Hard men create good times. Good times create soft men. Soft men create hard times. Hard times create hard men. Hard times are apon you. Hard men will emerge. War is coming once again. Without hard men you will lose. The West has been through the entire world corrupting. The societies built on the Bible were ancient when the the Bible was written. The Bible is simply a collection of books and Genesis is based on very old books. The wisdom enshrined therin is ancient and brought us thus far and when this civilization is gone that wisdom will sustain the children.

[@maggiebastolla5430]

Majority populations are always offended by minority groups that choose to live separately. I guess people feel excluded and/or judged (like “what’s wrong with my way of life?!!!”). Not to mention, humans seem to have an innate fear and distrust of differences (as you in South Africa are aware). The world is a mess. Thank God for Jesus, our center truth and hope.

[@jiggsborah7041]

@@maggiebastolla5430.. so true 👍. Yet it's more than that... if that community was a failure with alcohol and drug problems and poverty in general then they will be soundly ignored. Problem is that the Amish are generally prosperous and their faith guides and sustains them. This appears to drive others crazy. I watched an awful series called "breaking Amish "... I don't understand why people would turn honest clean living people into whores and drunkards... It's the work of demons 😈

[@walkerpublications4418]

Each country has issues. I am sure you are aware of all the issues in South Africa just as we in the US are aware of both our country's issues and yours. My family origins on my mother's side are Amish. Critiquing others' choices in lifestyle and decisions says far more about the person criticizing than the target of that criticism. I was in an Amish community yesterday meeting with a family there. All Amish families and communities are not identical in all things. I would not suggest not to mistake silence for "gentle" nor would I suggest that the individuals in communities are of the same degree of faith. Sin is sin and is active in all human communities. My observations of the English are that they often idealize Amish life based on what they "see" on roads, in markets, or in brief encounters on the road...and what they perceive as missing in their own lives/communities. Sin in Amish communities is not typically visible to those not living within the community...but it exists there just as in the secular world. The total number of Amish living in these communities is under 600,000. The population of the US is 300 million so this is a relatively small group of citizens. It is key to note that these communities have retention issues as many children or full families make the choice to exit the community. The real difference I have seen over the years is that the Amish keep their own counsel and are not gossiping about who is doing what. Action and reaction are handled within the community. For example, most Amish would never state what is stated in discussion threads about themselves or others in an open forum of strangers. There are over 30,000 different Christian sects (Amish sects not included in this number) and 9-11 types of Jewish sects depending on how you divide them. So it would seem that the real challenge in the secular world is agreeing to what the "rules of life" are. Morality is an individual choice. In the US many are quick to discuss the immorality of the country, but few discuss their role in that immorality. Silence is the ultimate act of immorality in a democracy as it allows for laws and elections of individuals that lead the way for many to follow. The "moral" don't fight for what is moral but are often the first to complain. Lack of action is the same as participation in an immoral act. A biblical principle rarely discussed.

[@littlebitofhope1489]

Jiggs Borah Please provide reliable sources for your claims.

[@blackrocks8413]

'more thoughtful about how they use technology...' Your thoughts and opinions have been insightful and valuable since I do live near a Amish Mennonite community. Great comments by many folks here btw...

[@neta565]

I think the Amish way of living is inspiring.😊

[@isaweesaw]

I agree with your sentiment on this/ it comes down to people not understanding why the Amish don't use tech. They don't just "hate" it, they hate the influence it has on society. They might still use it yet keep it at arms length

[@mitchelvalentino1569]

Fantastic video. I recently found your channel and have been binge-watching your videos. Thank you so much for sharing your insight! 🙏

[@AmishAmerica]

Thanks Mitchel, very kind!

[@Donkeydreamer]

Great explanation! My family an I visit the Holmes county amish community monthly. My kids love the donuts and farm animals. Enjoying your videos, keep it up.

[@AmishAmerica]

Thank you Nathan! Very nice that you are close enough to visit that community regularly. My favorite place to eat there is Boyd & Wurthmann's in Berlin, maybe you've tried it. Popular among locals

[@ThePanda5001]

I really admire the amish people and the way they live!! I think we should take a leaf out of their book, especially as regards how they look after each other. Think as a modern society we seem to have forgotten our sense of community!!

[@lindajc123]

The world would be a better place if we all took into consideration what should or shouldn't be allowed into our homes and influencing our children and influencing the grownups.

[@thomaslapp6029]

This is one of the best explanations I have heard about the Amish. I was born Amish but my parents left when I was very young. I would rather live in a community of Amish than Most of the English world as they call us. Yes I am considered English today. Thank you for giving this thoughtful explanation of how the Amish come to the conclusions about our world and how best to live in it.

[@AmishAmerica]

Thank you Thomas! Lapp is one of my favorite PA Amish surnames

[@katherinekinnaird4408]

Great topic today. I believe you are telling the story correctly. Thank you. God bless you all

[@Nanner823]

Why does anyone watch if they just word vomit nastiness 🥺

[@AmishAmerica]

I'm sometimes surprised at the comments too, the really angry ones - I think people click just to comment and get things off their chest :) Well if it helps people feel better we can call it comment therapy

[@emmib1388]

some people are not happy and want others not to be happy, some are just 'trolls' and comment to get others going, some are ignorant and then others think that because the other group lives differently than them, they are odd ...... and some are ... all of the above!

[@zalkona5051]

We’re all hypocrites in one way or another. I doubt that they’re any more hypocritical than anyone else.

[@toxicmompodcastmom3431]

I found your page by accident, I’m enjoying it! I appreciate all you do to make us novice understand. 🌺

[@AmishAmerica]

Thank you very much! Happy accident, glad you found it:)

[@toxicmompodcastmom3431]

@@AmishAmerica you’re welcome!!!

[@lauracoblentz6131]

I'm commenting on this only because I lived in Middlefield Ohio as an old order Amish girl and then woman til I was 34 years old...I really like watching your videos and I appreciate your respect for the amish....that being said I feel like there is a slight truth to the hypocrisy. My husband and I and our 7 children left the Amish a year ago because of some of this very reason...let me explain, in our church there were many rules against technology like only constitution crew leaders were supposed to have cell phones, they were to be plain flip phones that had only the ability to make phone calls, no internet, no texting, n no camera. They were to be strictly for work only....but sadly the vast majority had smart phones, and many people who were not crew leaders or even business owners had smart phones...they didn't feel like they were doing anything wrong so they would verbally agree to the cell phone rules when asked for their vote in church but then just kept their smart phones hidden...also there were many many Amish that in fact own a vehicle by paying for it, the insurance, the license and upkeep, then they hire a non Amish person to drive it around for them...in more liberal communities that might have been allowed but not where we lived...there are many many examples like that...I guess it might not seem so bad but for the fact that 2 times a year the amish have a church service where the bishop with tell the whole congregation the rules and then the ministers would go around and ask everyone individually for their vote and if there was something you didnt agree with and you would have spoken out against any of those things, you would not have been allowed to share in communion services 2 weeks later...there was a rule that if you missed communion 3 times in a row you were ex communicated automatically unless you just kept your true thoughts to yourself and agreed...once you are ex conunnicated you are faced with rejection and often are shunned. So for that reason most of us would just agree to the rules to avoid ex communication and then just go n do what we wanted to behind the churches back n pray we werent found out...that would have meant we would either have had to give ourselves up and confess our sins in front of the whole church...if we would have refused to do that we would have been also eventually been ex communicated. Some rules made even less sense than technology and cars...foe example, it was ok for the men n older boys to smoke but if a mairred woman or a girl that was a member of the church got caught smoking she had to either quit right away and/or be punished...also in our church you could only smoke brown cigarettes on church grounds but then any other time you could smoke white ones. I realize that there are many many different communities and variations of Amish and not all the rules I shared apply to all of them...these rules were for the most part in our church and surrounding areas...but the concept is the same for all of them...if you disagree you hold your peach and either follow the rules or hide things behind their backs...I'm sure there are many many happy Amish people who truly follow the rules because they believe in them and I'm not judging them at all...my husband and I still have many Amish loved ones whom we hold dear but for us we just felt like we were living a lie by promising to follow all these rules when we truly didn't feel like they were biblical and right for us...anyone who reads this please draw your own conclusions about what I shared and keep an open mind...I mean no disrespect but thought some might find an actual person who lived the lifestyles experience interesting...keep the videos coming!! 🥰🥰❤❤

[@KevinKimmich44024]

I live in chardon. I admire the amish and go down to middlefield for shopping and supplies pretty often. It's a very interesting community. You should start your own youtube! Lots of people look to the amish life as a sort of antidote to the problems of the culture in the US. Getting more details on the downside would be really valuable.

[@kathygreer2097]

Thank you for your honesty. We live in a small community surrounded by Amish and see this all the time. Not allowed to own modern conveniences-things, but constantly wanting to use Yankee’s. Often behind the bishops’ back. Their simple lifestyle wouldn’t be possible without the modern world helping make it possible. They are for the most part lovely, kind people, but it’s not the ideal many people think it is.

[@angelinvocon]

We've been doing business with the Amish for 20 years and more . We have Amish friends and we do not have English friends. The Amish do not judge you ...... think about it for a moment ...... not being judged for your short comings and not being glorified for your talents. We are ,both, very talented and find the Amish to be a breath of fresh air in a world of air pollution and personal agendas . We might be Amish, but for the religious part, guess that's what it's about ,so we're out . Thanks ,we appreciate your candor and you are doing a great job explaining things about the Amish , like and sub.

[@MA-mh1vs]

Faith and biblical values are the very basis for the lifestyle they live and why they do not judge or praise people. You can see the fruit is good and even desire it but your are put off by the tree it grows from, if the fruit is good so is the tree that produced it.

[@DoubleD19788]

A video on Rumspringa from YOUR knowledge would be great to know.

[@crustyrash]

Like the Mennonites, I believe what the Amish allow/disallow is based on the church they attend, among other things. And just like the rest of us, they are not 'Holier than God,' they sin and make mistakes too.

[@AmishAmerica]

Good point, and something they point out about themselves too. One error is putting Amish people on a pedestal. The other side of that coin is demonizing them. I'll have some thoughts to share on this :)

[@youtubesucks898]

@@AmishAmerica , on point! I get so tired of seeing both extremes. I grew up in the Amish culture and I'm well aware that they're not perfect like some people seem to think they are, but on the other hand, there are things about that culture that I'll always miss.

[@joe18750]

A hypocrite is someone who proselytizes do this, or don't do that and then does or doesn't do that thing. That's not what the Amish do. It's not even close. I've lived around the Amish community for 5 decades and have never experienced this. Unless you're doing business with the Amish, they keep to themselves. Not once in over 5 decades has an Amish person brought up religion or their view point of my behavior. In my view, they're clearly not hypocrites.

[@cynthiamullin661]

Thank you for always trying to explain how the Amish live.

[@joshhancock5301]

Most of my friends are Amish. They pay taxes. They vote. They are Americans. They are free to live as they wish, just as everyone else is, within the laws of our nation. They expect to be left to live as they wish, as do I. Amish (the ones I call friends) are against vanity. No mirrors in the home. No photographs. Drivers licenses require photographs. They won't do it. Therefore they don't drive automobiles

[@youtubesucks898]

Are you sure they vote? I don't believe that the Amish people are supposed to get involved in the "English" world's politics. That includes voting. They don't even believe it's right to have a President , so I really don't think they vote.

[@barefootinroann]

Very good - we lived in Berne, Indiana, for several years and your observations are spot on. A lot of people think they are trying to preserve culture from 150 years ago - that’s not it at all. Keep up the good work

[@AmishAmerica]

Thank you - Berne is a very interesting community to me, I've only been there a few times but would like to get to know it better. I did spend a good bit of time with their "cousins" in Allen Co. Both in some ways can be quite plain

[@barefootinroann]

@@AmishAmerica it was always clear the that Amish south of Berne (Geneva area) were more plain than those north). You never saw women in anything other than brown, grey, black or blue South of Berne - but pastels and power lawn mowers north. I loved the Swiss - not just Amish, but the Mennonites were Swiss too

[@jennifery5353]

This was very well said. I’ve been trying to explain this to people for years. One of my pet peeves is when people say that they’re trying to live in the past or like biblical people and that’s not actually true. They’re trying to separate themselves from the world or secular society, just like other Christian groups but in other ways. I also think that Ordnungs do different things than other Ordnungs because they’re also differentiating themselves from another Amish group. It’s not necessarily about evil vs non evil.

[@leonardgordon1748]

Thank you for speaking up and clarifying their use of technology. Amish and Mennonites makeup a wide spectrum of different groups and each have very different rules.

[@susiecox8413]

Hi Erik, Another informative video with a lot of comments! Looking forward to the next one!

[@AmishAmerica]

Thank you Susie, some good discussion here as usual:)

[@normangerring4645]

Thank you for explaining these things to us. I have always enjoyed seeing Amish but have never understood the differences between Amish themselves. I am still very impressed by them as a whole. Bigoted people will never understand because they don’t want to. I used the word bigoted because 50 years ago while was traveling through Amish country I was standing next to a local who hated them and had nothing nice to say about them. He reminded me of Germany and the Nazi Socialist Party prior to WW2.

[@AmishAmerica]

There is a good bit of bigotry against the Amish. Although the people holding those views probably don't even realize it

[@bonniemoerdyk9809]

He evidently doesn't know history very well, considering the Amish came over here about 200 years before WW2. I used to be very worried about having German blood in me ... but I was 5 years old! Sad there is such bigoted people in the world!

[@walkerpublications4418]

Your videos open both discussions and clarifications. The folklore about Amish people and communities would be less if their choice of clothing was not so different from nonAmish. This difference was not as visible when they arrived in the newly formed country as it is now. Yesterday I was in the local Amish community and tried not to be shocked by some of the outsider's questions. There was a short discussion among the Amish before responses were given. I had to turn away to hide my giggle. When my grandparents wanted to address a question, they would shift to what my grandmother called Amish German and then decide who was going to respond in English. That happened yesterday. When the "visitor" left I turned to the oldest son and asked how many questions they get each day like that one....but I ask him in, Amish German (which is similar to high German). Everyone in the family laughed, and he responded to me in Amish German.

[@AmishAmerica]

I'm pretty sure they hear some entertaining things :)

[@samwilson2797]

I would have a hard time living like that, but admire their simple life and self sufficient lifestyle. Thanks, great video.

[@AmishAmerica]

Thank you, Sam

[@uweschroeder]

I've seen Amish families on a plane flying to central America - after a chat it turns out they've bought some land and are relocating and since buggy and boat are just impractical they shipped their belongings, tractors etc. via container on a boat and flew down there on a plane. So yes, very good video about a lot of misconceptions about Amish people. Personally I would love to live like some of the Amish if it wasn't for the entire church or religion part (which of course is central to their way of living, but in theory you could live like that without religion). On that trip I also found they were quite easy to talk to - sure, I avoided religion and politics but that's topics better to avoid when talking to strangers in any situation. When you think about their way of living: they're self-sufficient, they help each other when the need arises much much more efficiently than i.e. FEMA ever could and they simply want to live in peace. Of course they too have their share of crime and violence - it's human nature. So they're just regular people who have a bit of a backwards lifestyle and looking at what the Internet did to today's society, they may well be the ones who did it right. Their society is not falling apart in some kind of culture war because social media split the population by scrambling the minds of so many.

[@jiggsborah7041]

..thanks I couldn't have put it better. Good luck 👍 💓

[@mq5276]

They can rebuild a home destroyed by natural disaster quicker than FEMA can get there to assess the damage! LOL

[@walkerpublications4418]

Interesting. Did you take a poll among all the passengers or did you single out the Amish out of curiosity and want to see if what you perceive as their use of technology was "ok" with being Amish. Just like Native American pueblo residents, the Amish are frequently accosted by people out of curiosity asking personal questions. When was the last time someone came to you in an Airplane and asked why you were flying? Notice the Amish did not seek you out on the plane to ask. My grandmother would call that shameful rude behavior and we would be chastised for it privately.

[@uweschroeder]

@@mq5276 That's what I was referring to. I read a story once where an entire settlement was pretty much leveled by a storm or something and when FEMA showed up to offer assistance the people from other settlements in the area were already busy rebuilding the destroyed one. I think it only took them a month to get things done. Of course this is much easier when you have simple houses built without much fuss, but it shows that a community can handle their own problems much more efficiently and that's what the Amish are good at: keeping their communities going because they rely on the manpower for their continued existence. All the people who smile at the Amish will stop smiling some time in the future when our society comes crashing down (just a matter of time) and the Amish continue to live the way they've always done with a few less conveniences while the rest of the population suffers because they have no means to survive without help.

[@jiggsborah7041]

@@uweschroeder self reliance ...

[@GrantReed7]

I recently found your channel and i am in love with it! I have been binge watching and it is so interesting. I grew up in northern Indiana so I been around amish my whole life but really didn't know anything about them or their culture. Keep up the videos you doing great work!

[@AmishAmerica]

Very cool Mike, thanks so much!

[@MandalaBunnyhome]

You explained everything well, I wondered about their occasional technology usage but never looked into the reason

[@larrylewis3573]

Dear Erik, I see that already you have received an abundance of comments. Thank you for taking on this topic and providing a masterful response. Just the right length and a great group of visuals to complement your talk. Once again, thank you for your good work. Sincerely, Larry Clarence Lewis, Ontario, Canada.

[@AmishAmerica]

Thank you Larry it's appreciated 👍👍👍

[@richardburton-777]

Great video. The ignorance many hold about these beautiful, sweet people is staggering. I worked and lived amongst the Amish & Minnonite community in Indiana when I live there. I find great diversity just as in any peoples anywhere, for the most part I found the interactions enjoyable and profitable. Having a desire to live a separate ,simple, pure or even more difficult life, engaging with work and agriculture or construction is everyone's right and an admirable choice. Saddly there can be abuse in any culture and in secluded family's. I thank God there are so many happy, Healthy families and communities to help. Please keep the good information coming. God bless us ALL!❤️🙏

[@AmishAmerica]

Thank you Richard!

[@shoeonhead]

I’m glad you had a good experience. I’m in northern Utah and there’s some really really rich and entitled Mennonite families that frequent our bike shop and ride very expensive, high end mountain bikes. They drive huge trucks but dress in traditional garb. They speak down to everyone and the mother especially is very cross and short in her speaking.

[@kt3300]

I think this was the best explanation I have heard .. thanks !

[@mq5276]

Thank you so much for this video! I get so frustrated with narrow minded tunnel vision people who would rather see the Amish as they think they should be instead of know them as they are.

[@BSIII]

Either way, I have the upmost respect for the Amish. I don't see them as primitive whatsoever. We are heading into some very scary times, and I actually see hope in people like the Amish.

[@wendytravis6427]

I’ve only known 2 people who have had Amish neighbors. One from Pennsylvania and the other from Ohio. Both said the same thing… They aren’t against cars. They’re against buying them, because they won’t hesitate to ask for a ride. They aren’t against telephones. They’re against paying for them because they not only will borrow yours, they will also give your number out so they can receive calls.

[@jonzaremba]

Explained very well.

[@wgrant72]

Well thought out explanation.

[@susanschuck8124]

Thank you, very interesting!

[@diane3428]

Great video and thank you for this explanation. I would love to live like the Amish!

[@donnaml8776]

Ya know there’s ALWAYS one (or more) negative person. Honestly I believe their living in a way they know is wrong. Then they see good people (whether that be Amish or another) living godly lives and it bothers their conscience and they retaliate. It has nothing to do with the Amish, or the other person, but has to do with whether they personally are happy with their relationship with God, with others, and with themselves. If these are good they have no need to to attack others.

[@rmkenney]

Spot on(for most cases). Thanks.

[@DanielJennessII]

They don’t really seem to have any relationship with God. They think that’s super weird. Bt so do MOST people

[@walkerpublications4418]

@@DanielJennessII not sure what the origins of your statement about "not having a relationship with God", is. When my family left the community we still retained a close relationship with God and do through the generations. There is no way for one person to know how God is or is not in their lives...nor is it any of our business....except in social media where everyone's business is up for review.

[@littlebitofhope1489]

Donna ML You sound very negative about those people. Why is that?

[@edwardpearce1138]

@@littlebitofhope1489 I did not read Donna's comment as being negative. Looking back at it I see there there could be some confusion if one interpets the word "their" in the second sentence as applying to the Amish rather their detractors.

[@jake2213b]

I bought a pickup truck that I was told the Amish own it. I find out people get Mennonites and Amish mix up. I knew it was the Mennonites who own that truck and they took the radio out and disconnect the air conditioner.

[@scottthomas6202]

There's a Mennonite community a few counties over that has similar views. It's not the technology as such, but how it impacts their life, family and community. In general, it seems to be well thought out. The bulk food store ran by the community has refrigeration...a concession to laws regarding food safety. The community has one car, and I think that's for emergencies, and there's a phone for emergencies as well. In just general observation, they seem healthy and content as a group.

[@TheMtggrl]

I think there will always be people who are more judgemental and tend to be a little nastier about the things they don't truly understand. I enjoy the video's you put out because they truly do help me to understand their way of life and the differences between the Amish and the English. When I find myself questioning things I tend to search out more information about what I don't understand. Thank you again for sharing "good" information with us.

[@ivanscott2367]

I liked how you pointed out that the Amish church is governed by consensus between the members of the local church. Catholics and Protestants are the same about how they decide what will and won't be allowed. Anyone can be a hypocrite. Even Atheists and Pagans can do good things from time to time.

[@chrise842]

Catholics are governed by the bishop. At least everywhere outside of the US.

[@CaseyWinningham]

Very well explained.

[@hollyfourbarrel1882]

thanks for video... informative

[@zachkucera3793]

This is an excellent video. When I see people complaining about the Amish being hypocrites, I am reminded on one level of Jesus being tested by the Pharisees in the temple in Jerusalem because He healed a man's hand on the Sabbath. He responded by asking if they would rescue one of their sheep on the Sabbath if it had falling into a well. Of course they would because sometimes the need is greater than being strictly adherent to the law. On another level, I also relate to the Amish and the individual churches declaring what is best for their community. I am an ordained minister in the Congregationalist Church. Each individual church decides its own policies, polity and liturgy. The church I pastored on the East Coast loved liturgical colors (purple for Advent and Lent, white for Easter, etc.) while the Congregationalist church the next town over would never even consider using liturgical colors. Such is how we all find Christ in our various ways. So, hearing about the community deciding church polity is very familiar to me. Again, great channel and an excellent video here.

[@AmishAmerica]

Thank you Zach. Good examples from another Christian faith tradition, thanks for sharing this. I guess we could say that each Amish church sets its own "law" (regarding material standards for living etc., not morality) and sometimes the next door church district will have quite different standards than yours, but still both completely "Amish"

[@jstanton4561]

I see the Amish as single handedly preserving our shared cultural heritage.

[@johnpinckney4979]

Another good video, Erik! ever consider doing one on the Amish men who work in the steam locomotive shop of the Strasburg Railroad? In addition to work on their own locomotives, they also do a lot of contract work on steam locomotives of other railroads.

[@AmishAmerica]

Thank you John - so I would love to learn more about those guys b/c tbh it's not something I was aware of. Do you know how many work there and how long that has been "a thing"? I'm always amazed at what occupations and business-related things Amish get up to, and in particular Lancaster County is a standout community for that

[@tommuscatello5999]

Very clear explanations

[@ThatFanBoyGuy]

If only we could sit back and wonder how technology impacts our family and community...

[@emmib1388]

and how much family time is lost as a result of technology :-(

[@brendahaire8824]

I respect the Amish and their way of life. They will be the ones to survive when it all hits the fan. We will then see who is prepared for what is yet to come.

[@radiopal0911]

I have always admired the Amish (or all Anabaptists really). I am a fan of the Hutterites who are a community that do use technology but still live in community.

[@karynroeseler2652]

10-15 years ago I worked in the metals industry and an Amish gentleman would use his neighbors land line phone to call in orders. Today he probably has a cellphone for business and emergencies

[@elizabethrobinson4851]

I met some very nice Amish people when I visited Shipshewana, IN. I felt welcomed and learned a lot about their culture. I could not live that life, but to each their own.

[@janedoe805]

I’d like to say, I’m not judgmental... I can’t because, l want say these viewers who are calling the Amish “Hypocrites” are nothing but “Haters and or Trolls”! So, l guess that makes me “Judgement”. You have to understand, the world has changed and the Amish have a right to change too! In whatever way they feel comfortable. I usually find people who make negative comments about others are jealous, insecure or just plain old nincompoops. I admire and respect the Amish... They’re good, kind hard working folks! ♥️

[@kimfleury]

Very well explained. I think it's a matter of historical ignorance, where the Luddite Movement got conflated with the Amish people. I don't condone banning the mythology that arises from historical ignorance, but I've always corrected it when I come across it. There are some gems that are still taught in public grade school, where you'd think teachers might care about teaching accurate history. I greatly appreciate your aim to be accurate, which is why you're respectful and fair in teaching your subject.

[@richdorak1547]

Well said. Thx.

[@gravityslave6277]

I can really appreciate their lifestyle. The simplicity, hard work, family values. They are almost like the last bastion of a agricultural society. You make a great point. It's not like the Amish are forcing their lifestyle on everyone else. Theres no public condemnation of modern society. They just do their thing. Commendable. I had a very different opinion on another Amish related video with this channel. This kinda put me in my place a bit. They arent so much hypocrites as they are picking what technology works for them. No more, no less.

[@lisaboban]

Individual Amish can be hypocritical just like any other group. Yep! You've got a fine channel, sir. Thanks for sharing your insights and information.

[@raethibodeau9604]

So much negativity in the world. I hope you were able to clear up some of the misconceptions. I'm glad you addressed the topic.

[@DanielJennessII]

They’re not saying “hey you English people are Bad.”

[@luciusirving5926]

I'm no Amish, but I would survive without electricity using smart technology. Never know when a geomagnetic storm will take place.

[@Tall_Order]

Amish people see the internet the same way most people who use the internet see the dark web. At least we all realize there is a problem.

[@edwardpearce1138]

All of us can be seen as hypocritical in some aspect of our lives. It seems to me that those who look for others' hypocrisy are usually trying to cover their own hypocrisy.

[@sfry927]

Well said.

[@robdubz1510]

Every religion has different beliefs within huge populations im Catholic personally and 1 billion+ are also . The amish have different views on technology between churches in the same area as you have shown

[@donaldfoltz4649]

Good explanation, I guess you are saying the Amish are human, trying to do the best they can.

[@lacyhay9022]

The amish live their lives the way they feel is right. Different sect of amish have different rules. I have amish friends that are allowed to have gas power farm equipment. And I have amish friends that are not allowed to have it. They just live their lives the way they feel God wants them to. If you ever get invited to participate in an amish activity do it. I got invited to a canning party to help a new mom that I am now friends with. It was awesome and the fellowship and food was just as awesome

[@tammyblack2747]

I would like to see you talk about the practice of shunning. The way I've always seen it depicted in movies and on television, it always seems that the person being shunned is being punished by the bishop and people are angry with them. But the people that you talk to seem very nice and community-oriented and do not seem like the type of people who would punish anyone in their colonies that disagreed with them. I can see them having a discussion or debate about an issue, but not cruelly shutting out a member of their community and not talking to them or anything. It doesn't seem like they would punish someone but maybe instead they might ask a person who severely disagreed with them to leave, and of course people are always free to leave if they want to, it seems.

[@ricoludovici2825]

My understanding is that the Amish do not use technology for pure convenience. They may have a phone used by many families at the corner of two highways. They use a free-standing 4-cycle motor to harvest but not a tractor to pull it. Many of these uses come from the corporate desire NOT to be dependent on others who could cancel the utility and harm their way of life. The Mormons have a similar notion of keeping one year's food in storage if they should ever have to hunker down and not leave their houses - as has happened in the past. Also, the highest good in the Amish faith is **humility**. Anything that represents a form of boasting or decoration disconnected from a clear utility is not supported by the community. So bright, fashionable decor or clothing leads to a loss of humility. Colorful decorations on something essential to the household management is okay. Computer/internet use clearly leads to some form of damage to the community. We read about it every day: kids bullied on line, sexual gender confusion, hook-up culture. They do not have problems with these issues for the most part. Plus, I don't think the Amish are afraid of an EMP. The fridge will keep right on burning. Good vid. Nice job of explaining.

[@suziebea1177]

I've only recently found you and I've watched many of your videos (not all...yet). I love the Amish and their dedication to their culture and beliefs. I feel like they could teach the world alot about community and family. But I'm curious if you could cover the shunning (of Amish that choose to leave) they have been said to practice. Or if you have already, could you point me to that video? Thanks!

[@AmishAmerica]

Hi Suzie very glad you found the channel. So I haven't done a dedicated video on that yet, it's on the list along with Ordnung and ex-Amish topics

[@TheLizardKing1967]

The Amish are smart. When the power grid goes down. They are Ultimate Preppers. Great video!

[@jenniferk9242]

There's a large Amish community nearby to me and seeing horse and buggies in the grocery store parking lots was a common occurrence, but I've noticed I rarely see it anymore, even when I see Amish in the store. Can't remember the last time I've seen a buggy on the road, or the telltale horse manure. Either they've decided to use car rides more often, or I don't get out as much anymore 😂

[@WilliamWylde]

There's also more than one denomination of "Amish". They are not one unified sect.

[@j.b.4340]

They probably just can’t think of a better word. I don’t see any reason to insult Amish/ Mennonite people. I’ve seen “regular” folks claim that some modern tech is “evil”. It’s a sliding scale.

[@fukushimaisrevelation2817]

thank you

[@johnnyllooddte3415]

very sad sick commenters.. the amish live by their own code.. and are very happy

[@loisfromohio3109]

It's sad that people misunderstand the Amish.

[@pchound5962]

I can perfectly see why the Amish don't use the internet much.

[@tinak8636]

This is an off topic question. I live in Amish country and have my own opinion. My question is if you can do a video to see how will the Amish deal when cash is removed and only credit cards can be used. I know they don’t use credit cards so I’m curious what they will do. Keep the great videos coming.😊🙏

[@HugeWolf1]

There seems to be confusion between the Amish way of life (culture) and their religion. Their religion is Christianity. Thus, they make rules within their OWN community to help keep them from sinning, such as pride (wearing flashy clothing) or greed. They do not need a car if a horse and buggy (or bicycle) is all they need. An example, keeping electricity out of their homes is a way to keep temptation from their lives. So electricity is only used as a tool and not entertainment or frivolous luxuries or to show off to their neighbors. There are those who go to extremes. like in any other culture. The extremest are the ones that get the most attention.

[@johnkaczinski468]

Well stated!! Amish are also known as a forgiving people. I believe that they will forgive the hatred shown in those comments.

[@walkerpublications4418]

Shunning is not an act of forgiveness. It is dangerous to confuse forgiveness with acts of contrition and correction of behavior. I can forgive you but could also be required to shun you.

[@johnkaczinski468]

@@walkerpublications4418 Well… I guess you’re better than the Amish. Nothing bitter or unforgiving in your post reply.

[@emmib1388]

@@walkerpublications4418 you are the only one confusing shunning and forgiveness... John said nothing about shunning -- the forgiveness he referenced was toward the English -- they would not be shunned because they never agreed to the rules ... Shunning only applies to the church members -- who agreed to the rules and are aware of the consequences when not followed.

[@dasy2k1]

Question... Do some Amish change which particular group they belong to? By marriage? For example in areas where various different kinds of amish live and interact with each other surely there must be cases of somone falling for somone in a related by different flavor of the church. Would they be allowed to get married without being shunned by their family?

[@mrs.g.9816]

I prefer to learn about, understand, and celebrate different cultures. I admire people who first think about whether something will help them, or pull them away from a good life, before they include it in their lives. I've always believed that when America became car-centered, more urban, more dependent on technology - and more greedy for the latest "toys", we got further away from nature and caused further environmental destruction. And yes, it all negatively affected community and extended family. I'm blessed to live in a community-minded and friendly rural town.

[@ottopartz1]

Do the Amish participate in voting and the American political system? Also in areas where they have a majority or significant proportion of the population do they run for or hold political office?

[@funbukit5366]

Erik, have you ever visited the Chautauqua, NY Amish community? I live very close to there and have wanted to visit the Amish in that community.

[@AmishAmerica]

I haven't yet - would love to do a trip to W. NY, that's on the list. There are actually about 4 different communities in Chautauqua County, but the "big" one is near Clymer. Check out this list, might be useful: groups.etown.edu/amishstudies/files/2021/08/Amish-Pop-2021_by-state-and-county.pdf

[@funbukit5366]

@@AmishAmerica will do, thank you!

[@fieldsoftara]

We get a lot of people saying the Amish are hypocritical here in Ethridge because the swartzentruber community is supposed to be the most strict about technology. We have a greyhound bus station that picks them up and some people say they’re hypocrites for riding the bus. But then again, people say a lot of things. Good video Erik as always. I’ll email you an update.

[@littlebitofhope1489]

fieldsoftara You have said what they say. You have not said why they say it. Riding a bus is using technology. It seems if they have a need, they are fine with using the technology that other people develop, and then shun it when they don't need it. Are you saying that is not hypocritical? How do you support that claim.

[@fieldsoftara]

@@littlebitofhope1489 read my comment. I am repeating the words of others not my own. I grew up in Ethridge Tennessee and run the Amish of Ethridge website and Facebook page. I am agreeing with Erik that some people think the Amish are hypocritical because they don’t understand the Amish reasoning over technology. I personally am just fine with them doing things out of the ordinary. I love ❤️ my Amish neighbors and if they need to ride a bus, call someone on the phone, or go see a doctor then I’m ok with it. Unfortunately some people see this as hypocritical because of their own ignorance.

[@littlebitofhope1489]

@@fieldsoftara Again you feel free to call people ignorant. And yet you don't answer questions. That says more about you than the people you call "ignorant". The Amish believe that using technology leads to evil. To say that and then make up excuses to use it is the definition of hypocritical. Maybe the people recognizing that are not the ignorant ones. Maybe people making up rules they say their sky daddy made, and then breaking those rules when it suites them are the ignorant ones. You really need to check your bias.

[@fieldsoftara]

@@littlebitofhope1489 I don’t owe anyone an explanation or apology. If you watch the video and understand what Erik is saying then read my comment then you would get it. Ignorance is just “not knowing” and some people don’t know the Amish position on technology. I get the bit about your sky daddy line, I am an atheist but the Amish people believe technology separates them from each other so they limit the use of technology but use certain technologies if necessary in certain use cases. I don’t know of any Amish people who believe technology is bad or evil on its own. I live in a large Amish community and have visited many others, it is me who understands this issue. I will not be responding back so don’t even bother with continuing this conversation.

[@littlebitofhope1489]

@@fieldsoftara Like anyone would expect an apology from a person like you. SMDH

[@joeanderson9431]

Spot on again Eric; I completely relate to the apostle Paul on when a group was putting him up on a pedestal and deeming him a Saint, and he said to them I may have been changed but even I surrender daily; and I Joe Anderson surrender daily; Jesus saves

[@dyinteriors]

In my experience, it is not technology that hurts Amish or Mennonite families, but rather the nature of superstitious religious faith over empirical facts. I was raised Old Order Mennonite in Michigan. I can assure you as a gay man, it has been anything but easy for me to have any relationship with any members of my family and community. The pain of shunning has been, at times, excruciating. I have moved on and found new family and community to replace what I so unjustly lost. I am no longer a believer in the nonsense I feel is so toxic and damaging to family members, who by no fault of their own, were NOT born exactly like everyone else in the community. I have come to loath faith as a way of life, as it certainly hardens hearts and brings out the most cruel parts of people’s characters. I now say, “ There is no hate quite like Christian love.”

[@stephanier9820]

It's unfair but unfortunately how people are in calling hypocrite on things they don't understand. They function the best they can as ant of us do. Some are rude, some are nice. You're going to find all kinds in any community. I can understand why obesity who doesn't like technology or whatnot might make an exception for the sake of an emergency or something. I know an Amish woman who needs special medical equipment for a child, she's got special permission. Different situations require different solutions. In general they aren't any more hypocritical than the rest of us.

[@SavvyLikeThat]

Can you speak to the accusation that their women are treated poorly and often the men get exceptions for tech while women have to do things the harder way? Ive also heard when teens come of age they get dropped in the city with no resources and a few days later the parents come back and are like see how scary that world is?! I'd love to know if thats bunk or not.

[@KiltedDaddyBear]

Talk is cheap, and most do the talk but not the walk. There are always those who need to be negative. I would need say this is the background for most of this talk by those outside the Amish community. We all could learn a lot from the Amish.

[@jvahioguy7068]

I have wonderful "new" neighbors. They have computers to help them in their businesses. I drove an rented older van to take my neighbors from Virginia

[@mailill]

A question: Do the Amish use (toxic) chemical herbicides, pesticides and fungicides in their farming? Or are their farms ecological?

[@AmishAmerica]

This often surprises people but the majority do use pesticides etc. (conventional ag.). Organic farming however has become increasingly popular. I have a video recorded on this I still need to produce. Check out Lancaster Farm Fresh Co-op for one example

[@mailill]

@@AmishAmerica Looking forward to that video! Thank you!