As the world begins to shift from an agriculture-dependent economy to an industrial influence, so does the daily interaction between humans. The community life that once praised the virtues of professional ethics and intimate interaction slowly moved towards a society that was devastated by self-fulfillment and individualism. In order to maintain a lifestyle that conforms to the old principles, some people have begun to withdraw from the prevalence of this new type of society. These people have established a small society that is generally self-sufficient and emphasize the importance of maintaining close relationships with neighbors and family members. In a society like today, the most common example might be the Amish community. The complete withdrawal of all technical aspects of society allows them to pay more attention to religious and social interactions than what modern society allows.
To define these two types of societies, sociologist Ferdinand Tönnies [1887/1988] classifies them into two distinct social styles. He applied the term Gemeinschaft to a community that focuses on intimate social interaction. He said that everyone in the community knows everyone and members of society have a common sense of destiny. This type of society is consistent, because if one person deviates, others in the community will plot to undermine the abnormal reputation. Although their lives are largely controlled by the opinions of others, they can be comforted by knowing that they are part of an intimate group.
At the other extreme is Gesellschaft, which refers to the chaotic society of today's industrial society. Tony pointed out that the industrialization of the 20th century is teasing simple rural life. According to short-term relationships, the importance of personal achievement and self-interest, personal relationships, lifelong friendships and family relationships is actually devalued. Gossip in this society is much less efficient, because if things get worse, short-term relationships can end at the beginning of a new relationship. Formal institutions such as the police and courts have replaced the effects of peer pressure and gossip.
Today's Amish community is a beautiful example of what Tony calls the Gemeinschaft community - he accurately predicts that this will be a boycott of industrialization. In these communities, weekly meetings on the distribution of goods and common benefits replace today's courts and other institutions. All decisions are made based on the needs of individuals who are closely related to you. Therefore, every decision is made to improve the community at all levels. In a typical society, laws must be used to attract the common interests of many people – usually for the rich and those living in modern areas. These laws are usually not related to communities such as the Indian Protected Area and the Amish Region, and therefore have no place in society. In this way, the Amish lifestyle is very meaningful.
Another reason for the separation of the Amish from the world is because of the literal interpretation of Christ's sermon on the mountain. They believe that in order to remain loyal to their beliefs, they must minimize the interference generated by modern society. In a smaller, family-centered community, people can put most of his stock in Bible study and worship, not in the job market, social acceptance, and other financial issues.
In some people's eyes, maintaining old health values is more important. Contact with neighbors and family members can achieve a comprehensive development and a more comprehensive sense of security. As Tönnies said, humanity will take all necessary measures to maintain a strong social bond.
Orignal From: Amish life - maintaining social responsibility
No comments:
Post a Comment