The relationship between the Amish community and modern technology, particularly electricity, is often misunderstood by outsiders. While the Amish are frequently portrayed as living in complete darkness, the reality is far more nuanced and practical. They do use electricity, but they generate it themselves and strictly control how it is used within their homes and workshops. This deliberate approach stems from a complex set of religious beliefs centered on community, humility, and separation from the wider world, rather than a blanket rejection of modern conveniences.
Ordnung: The Foundation of Amish Life
To understand the Amish stance on electricity, one must first grasp the concept of the Ordnung, which is the unwritten set of rules governing every aspect of Amish life. This code is not a fixed document but varies slightly between different church districts and communities, reflecting local traditions and interpretations. The Ordnung is designed to protect the community’s values, ensuring a cohesive lifestyle that prioritizes face-to-face interaction and religious devotion over individual convenience. Technology is evaluated based on how it impacts these core principles, leading to decisions that may seem inconsistent to the outside world.
Practical Benefits vs. Spiritual Costs
When considering a specific technology like electricity, Amish bishops weigh the practical benefits against the perceived spiritual costs. Electricity can power tools that help sustain their agrarian lifestyle, such as pumps for water and equipment for sawmills. However, public grid power is often viewed as a gateway to the outside world, potentially bringing television, internet, and other influences that could erode community bonds. The concern is not the electron itself, but what that electron might enable—distractions that pull individuals away from their family, church, and manual labor.
Amish Methods of Power Generation
Many Amish communities have found a compromise by generating their own direct current (DC) electricity. This is typically achieved using battery banks that are charged by solar panels or wind generators. Because this system is self-contained, it fits neatly within their interpretation of the Ordnung. The power is stored and then distributed through 12-volt systems, which is sufficient for essential needs like lighting, powering small appliances, and charging tools. This method allows them to maintain a modern standard of living in the barn while avoiding the entanglements of the commercial utility grid.
Solar Power: The most common method, utilizing photovoltaic panels to charge deep-cycle batteries.
Wind Power: Often used in areas with consistent wind, turning kinetic energy into stored electrical energy.
Hydraulic Ram: A mechanical pump powered by water flow, sometimes used to supplement other power needs.
Strict Limitations on Usage
Even in communities that utilize solar or wind power, there are strict limitations on what the electricity can be used for. Outlets are often restricted to areas like the kitchen or workshop, and the voltage is kept low to prevent the use of high-energy devices. Outward-facing lights are generally forbidden to avoid drawing attention or creating a sense of superiority. Furthermore, power is never used for entertainment purposes; there are no televisions, computers, or stereographs connected to the grid. The electricity serves purely utilitarian functions, supporting productivity rather than leisure.
Exceptions and Variations
It is essential to recognize that the Amish are not a monolithic group. There are significant variations between the Old Order Amish, the New Order Amish, and the Beachy Amish. The Old Order adheres to the strictest interpretation, often relying solely on propane and kerosene. The New Order Amish, while still conservative, are more accepting of limited electricity if it improves efficiency without introducing harmful influences. Some communities may allow larger machinery in the barn but forbid it in the house. These differences highlight that the issue is not a simple yes or no, but a spectrum of adaptation.
