Amish Culture

Is a perfect world possible? Can a society be created in which equity, equal opportunity, and peace are completely prevalent? In my opinion, no, but, this is a debatable point. Dozens of unique societies have risen up since the beginning of history, however, none have yet managed to create a perfect community. Nevertheless, there have been a few diamonds in the rough. The Amish, for example, utilize their religious teachings and practices to work towards a localized utopia. They practice pacifism, protect the environment, and hold values that help them live together in unity. While not being absolutely perfect, the Amish community proves to exhibit utopian qualities, all made possible through religious teachings, ceremonies, and practices.

Firstly, barn raising, mentioned above, plays a key role in the utopian qualities of the Amish. Entire villages will come together to construct a barn for an individual who they deem fit, or sometimes, as a welcoming gift. This encourages good behavior and marriage, in hopes of having one’s own barn raising. This also helps to reward those who have done good for the community by allowing their neighbors, friends and family show them thanks. Secondly, the Rumspringa is a tradition where young men and women are allowed to break any of the established rules of their religion, including drinking, doing drugs, and using electricity, as soon as they cross an age threshold. Some believe this tradition is to ward off bad behavior by scaring the youth away from it, however, others assert that it’s to get a taste of life outside of their own culture. Either way, it usually succeeds in creating men and women who follow Amish teachings very strictly. The high retention rate, aforesaid mentioned, simply highlights this. Amish traditions and events are a major part of creating a utopia, and they go hand in hand with the society’s

Because they do not use electricity, as it is against their beliefs, the Amish have a very low impact on the environment. They farm using simple tools, and they use the land sparingly to ensure that it lasts as long as possible. The process of bartering, seen in only some communities, creates a level playing field for opportunity. This also means that gambling is kept to a minimum, if at all. It also keeps all transactions within the community, helping to support neighbors. Amish also strictly practice pacifism, which prevents crime. Lastly, the Amish are not allowed to possess or play musical instruments. This is because it is believed that it could make some feel inferior to others due to their inability to play. All of these details are integral to the Amish way of life, and they contribute to the idealistic society. There are many aspects of Amish life that make up the ideal of perfection. Most religions, in fact, have foundations in perfectionism. Practices, teachings, and ceremonies all play key roles in making this possible; all three are intertwined. People may one day achieve a perfect society, and the Amish are heading in the right