Genetic Studies of the Amish, Background and Potentialities.

A description of the Amish ( I , 2). Because of their unusual socio-religious tenets and practices, the Old Order Amish are widely known. They eschew personal adornment and follow closely prescribed habits of dress. They resist technologic advances, specifically using the horse and carriage for transportation and using mainly horse-drawn agricultural equipment. Electricity and telephones are not permitted in the home. Most Amish are farmers. Private enterprise with mutual assistance characterizes the Amish economic system. Many Amish, especially in Lancaster County, Pa., are prosperous and a few are fairly wealthy. Some Amish are trilingual, speaking English, German and “Dutch” (a German dialect of Palatine origin) and all are bilingual. Religious services, conducted in German and “Dutch,” are held in the several homes (or barns) in rotation. Amish religious beliefs are based on literal interpretations of the Bible. A strong system of sanctions, including excommunication and shunning (Meidung) , helps maintain the group. As Anabaptists, the Amish oppose infant baptism. Reception into church membership by baptism is practiced at an age of decision on the part of an individual, usually in the late teens. Footwashing, a symbol of humility and service, is a characteristic part of the Amish communion service held twice a year. No formally educated clergy exists. Bishops, preachers, and deacons, chosen from the laity, are responsible for religious aspects and, indeed, most aspects of community life. The Amish do not want their children educated beyond grade school. They also resist consolidated schools, not necessarily because of fear of corruption of their children through contacts with non-Amish but more because of the teaching of science, gymnasium activities including the wearing of uniforms, and modern facilities. One-room Amish parochial schools staffed by teachers with little formal training persist in many Amish areas of this country. Frequently the Amish get into trouble with the government over matters such as failure to satisfy the minimal require-