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The Riddle of Amish Culture

Donald B. Kraybill

revised edition
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Revised edition of this classic work brings the story of the Amish into the 21st century.

Since its publication in 1989, The Riddle of Amish Culture has become recognized as a classic work on one of America's most distinctive religious communities. But many changes have occurred within Amish society over the past decade, from westward migrations and a greater familiarity with technology to the dramatic shift away from farming into small business which is transforming Amish culture. For this revised edition, Donald B. Kraybill has taken these recent changes into account, incorporating new...

Revised edition of this classic work brings the story of the Amish into the 21st century.

Since its publication in 1989, The Riddle of Amish Culture has become recognized as a classic work on one of America's most distinctive religious communities. But many changes have occurred within Amish society over the past decade, from westward migrations and a greater familiarity with technology to the dramatic shift away from farming into small business which is transforming Amish culture. For this revised edition, Donald B. Kraybill has taken these recent changes into account, incorporating new demographic research and new interviews he has conducted among the Amish. In addition, he includes a new chapter describing Amish recreation and social gatherings, and he applies the concept of "social capital" to his sensitive and penetrating interpretation of how the Amish have preserved their social networks and the solidarity of their community.

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Reviews

This book is a perfect tool for introducing undergraduates to sociological analysis. Kraybill skillfully depicts an intriguing world that promotes collectivism against the dominant individualism. We come to understand how Amish life makes sense to those who adhere to it.

Carefully crafted, richly nuanced and accessible to both the informed reader and the novice, Donald Kraybill has once again produced a remarkably clear and meticulous study of one of North America's most intriguing religious minorities. The Riddle of Amish Culture opens a window into the complex reality of Amish society that crisscrosses the postmodern, modern, and traditional worlds.

Donald Kraybill has written a brilliant exposition of Amish life. A sociological tour de force and must-read for those who wish to understand Amish culture.

I cannot think of a better way to introduce students to the richness of Amish life. The Riddle of Amish Culture takes the reader into the intricacies of Amish life and culture. Kraybill frames his rich narrative description with sophisticated analysis. While thoroughly accessible, Kraybill's book never insults the reader's intelligence. His treatment of Amish life resists stereotypes. In fact, he routinely explodes them.

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Book Details

Publication Date
Status
Available
Trim Size
6
x
9
Pages
424
ISBN
9780801867729
Illustration Description
61 halftones, 13 line drawings
Table of Contents

1. The Amish Story
2. The Quiltwork of Amish Culture
3. Symbols of Integration and Separation
4. The Social Architecture of Amish Society
5. Rites of Redemption and Purification
6. Auctions, Frolics, and

1. The Amish Story
2. The Quiltwork of Amish Culture
3. Symbols of Integration and Separation
4. The Social Architecture of Amish Society
5. Rites of Redemption and Purification
6. Auctions, Frolics, and Gangs
7. Passing on the Faith
8. The Riddles of Technology
9. Harnessing the Power of Progress
10. The Transformation of Amish Work
11. Managing Public Relations
12. Regulation Social Change
13. Exploring Our Common Riddles

Author Bio
Donald B. Kraybill
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Donald B. Kraybill

Donald B. Kraybill is a Distinguished College Professor and senior fellow emeritus at Elizabethtown College's Young Center for Anabaptist and Pietist Studies.
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