Are the Amish a Counterculture or Subculture?

Amish culture stands apart, often leading many to question whether it falls into the category of a counterculture or simply a subculture. To explore this, it is essential to understand the roots and practices that define the Amish way of life.

Defining Counterculture

A counterculture is typically characterized by the rejection or opposition to the dominant values and behaviors of mainstream society. This often involves a conscious and intentional effort to separate from or resist prevailing societal norms. The Amish, however, have religious reasons for living apart from the world, not as an active rejection of mainstream culture but rather as a simplistic follow-through of their beliefs.

A Historical Perspective

Amish and Mennonite communities trace their origins back to sixteenth-century European peasant culture. The Amish split from the Mennonites in the late 18th century, adhering to stricter interpretations of biblical teachings. For them, living separate from the world is not simply a form of resistance but a method of remaining true to religious principles.

Halting Worldly Progress

The 19th century saw a significant shift in Amish and Mennonite practices. Around 1890, a religious fervor emerged in North American charismatic evangelical circles, prompting some to reject certain "worldly" practices. Arguably, these practices included:

Sunday school and organized Bible study Mid-week prayer and revival meetings English preaching New inventions such as automobiles, telephones, radios, and electricity

By putting such practices on hold, the Amish and Mennonites ensured that their way of life remained distinct from the rapidly changing world around them.

The Roots of Amish Culture

The Amish and Mennonites have historically embraced a simpler lifestyle, one rooted in their belief system. Their practices, clothing, and customs reflect a deep-seated commitment to traditional ways. However, it's important to note that within the Mennonite community, there are two distinct groups:

New Order Mennonites

The New Order Mennonites introduced more strict rules around women's clothing, discouraged high school education for girls, and eventually relaxed some of these rules as their community developed. Today, many of these rules have been dropped.

Old Order Mennonites

The Old Order Mennonites similarly distanced themselves from modern inventions, maintaining traditional methods. Their horse and buggy communities and strictly regulated vehicle rules reflect a deep adherence to their principles.

The Amish: A Holdover from Previous Times

Tracing the history of the Amish shows that while they do reject certain aspects of modern society, their culture is not an active opposition to it. Rather, it is a conscious and intentional adherence to the simpler ways of life. This makes the Amish more of a subculture—a distinct group within larger society—rather than a counterculture.

In conclusion, the Amish culture is a holdover from previous times. Their practices and beliefs are intentionally maintained to reflect a simpler, more traditional way of life, driven by religious and cultural values rather than a direct resistance to modern society.

Keywords: Amish, counterculture, subculture