The Amish aren't technophobes. They don't blindly reject technology — they evaluate each one by criteria.
Criteria
1. Strengthens or weakens family? (TV weakens — kids watch instead of talking. Gas stove strengthens — mother cooks more efficiently.) 2. Strengthens or weakens community? (Car weakens — people move far away. Horse strengthens — you live near neighbors.) 3. Creates dependence on outside world? (Power grid — yes. Solar panel — no.) 4. Encourages pride? (Fashionable clothes — yes. Work clothes — no.)
Example Decisions
Diesel engine on farm — yes (not grid-connected). Grid electricity — no (dependence). Pneumatic tools — yes (run from compressor). Electric tools — no. Bicycle — depends on community (some allow, some don't).
Process
Decisions made by community, not individuals. Discussion, trial period, vote. If technology harms — reversed, even if convenient. Slow, but deliberate.
Lesson
Before buying a gadget, ask: do I really need this? Or is it marketing? How will this affect my life in a year? The Amish ask these questions every time.