Beyond Buggies: The Evolving World of the Amish
Stephen Colbert’s recent jokes about the Amish highlight a common misconception: that this religious group exists frozen in time, untouched by modern complexities. The reality is far more fascinating.
While some Amish communities remain deeply traditional, others embrace technology in surprising ways. Electric bikes hum through Amish country alongside horse-drawn buggies, solar panels power homes, and email bridges communication gaps. This adaptation underscores a core Amish value: practicality. Technology is judged not by its novelty, but by its potential impact on their faith and community.
This evolution extends beyond tools. Patriotic symbols and nationalistic rhetoric are finding a foothold in some Amish settlements. Scholars point to a growing embrace of Christian Nationalism, a phenomenon largely absent from traditional Amish beliefs. This shift, coupled with Republican outreach efforts, has even led to Amish participation in political rallies.
I must admit this does deeply trouble me. As an Amish-Mennonite, one of the truths I hold to, as have the Amish, Amish-Mennonites and Mennonites for years, is the Biblical doctrine of non-resistance. We do not participate in the military, in government and in voting. Sadly, this is changing among many of the groups.
Ironically, a key factor in some Amish support for Trump may be their very rejection of modern media. Sheltered from the constant barrage of political news and social media negativity, they form opinions based on different priorities.
Stephen Colbert’s recent monologue poked fun at the idea of Donald Trump Jr. reaching out to Amish voters. While the image of Amish elders flocking to “MilkTok” is undeniably humorous, it perpetuates a tired stereotype: the Amish as a simple, unchanging people. The reality is far more nuanced and deserves a closer look.
Yes, some Amish communities remain deeply traditional. Think horse-drawn buggies, cloistered lives, and a firm rejection of modern conveniences. But to paint all Amish settlements with this brush is a mistake. Across the country, a quiet revolution is unfolding. Electric bicycles zip alongside buggies, their whirring a testament to the Amish embrace of practical technology. Solar panels dot rooftops, silently generating electricity for homes that may still lack televisions. Even email has found a foothold, facilitating communication in a way that respects their separation from the outside world.
This willingness to adapt isn’t driven by a desire for the latest gadgets. The Amish approach technology with a cautious pragmatism. Will a new invention enhance their lives without compromising their core values? Does it threaten the close-knit fabric of their communities? The decision-making process is slow and deliberate, with community leaders carefully weighing the potential benefits against the risks of societal disruption.
However, the evolution of Amish culture goes beyond tools and gadgets. A more surprising development is the emergence of political engagement within some Amish settlements. Elements of Christian Nationalism, previously absent from traditional Amish beliefs, are finding fertile ground. Scholars point to a growing presence of American flags and patriotic merchandise in Amish gift shops, a stark contrast to the community’s historical emphasis on pacifism and separation from the secular world. This shift has caught the attention of Republican politicians, who see the Amish as a potential voting bloc. Trump rallies have even witnessed Amish men in their signature straw hats, a sight that would have been unimaginable a generation ago.
One might think that a community known for shunning technology would be immune to the divisive rhetoric that permeates modern politics. But therein lies a surprising twist. The very reason some Amish may be drawn to Trump is their limited exposure to the negativity of cable news and social media. Sheltered from the constant barrage of political mudslinging, they may form their opinions based on different priorities, perhaps aligning with Trump’s economic policies or his perceived stance on “American values.” Justin Williams, a reporter who spoke to Amish residents in his Ohio hometown, noted their appreciation for Trump’s business-friendly policies.
Ultimately, Colbert’s portrayal of the Amish as out-of-touch misses the mark. The Amish are not relics of a bygone era. They are a community actively navigating the complexities of the modern world, embracing technology where it serves their needs and fiercely guarding their identity in the face of external pressures. Their evolving use of technology, their burgeoning political engagement, and their adaptation to a rapidly changing world all demand a deeper understanding, not cheap stereotypes. The Amish story is one of resilience, pragmatism, and a commitment to preserving their unique way of life in a world that seems intent on moving ever faster.