Medium Control, Maximum Empowerment: Strategies for Amish Living in the Digital Age

• In Event: Beyond Non-Use: Infrastructuralism and Interruption

Abstract

4S New Orleans Abstract Submission for Open Panel

My book, tentatively titled 'Medium Control, Maximum Empowerment: Strategies for Amish Living in the Digital Age' articulates Amish strategies for the calculated (non-) adoption of ICTs in a rapidly modernizing social world. It draws on ethnographic fieldwork conducted from 2011-2014 in Indiana, home to the 3rd largest population of Amish in North America. In-depth interviews with Amish church and business leaders illustrate that adoption strategies are aimed at maintaining control over information flows in Amish communities. These strategies are intended to protect the spiritual, social and physical well-being of community members from negative corporate and governmental influences. Leaders encourage “appropriate” usage of ICTs in Amish communities. This strategy is intended to empower Amish communities over the long term by protecting a simple, slow-paced, spiritual and in tune with nature way of life where members feel they have purpose.

The book is particularly notable for its articulation of a philosophy of technology use that privileges community, spirituality and the psycho-social well-being of individuals. Amish opinion leaders increasingly feel that ICTs are important tools for 21st century work, which has multi-faceted implications for their venerated and slow-changing way of life. Thus, in contrast to work tools of the past, like pneumatic power tools, ICTs require special treatment. The book shows, contrary to popular thought, the Amish are not entirely against technology. Instead, they are currently working through a complex negotiation with modern tools collectively by gauging the current social context and employing a value-based calculation that guides the adoption of new technology.

Author

• Lindsay Ems, Butler University