1. Skip to content
  2. Skip to main menu
  3. Skip to more DW sites

The world of the Amish — between tradition and temptation

42:34

This browser does not support the video element.

January 27, 2026

The Amish still live as they did in the 17th century: without electricity, phones or cars. While many continue to resist the temptations of the modern world, others are breaking away from the group.

For the Amish community in the USA, only the word of the Lord counts. They follow biblical principles to the letter, and believe in traditional gender roles. 

But younger members of the Christian community in particular are questioning the extreme rules that guide their lives. Amish life places Christian faith above all else, rejects technological progress and sees a woman's place as being in the home. How long can this world view hold out?

This film offers a rare insight into this community: After months of reflection, three generations of Amish agreed to open their doors to the camera. They share their daily lives, which they live according to the centuries-old rules of a Swiss Mennonite preacher. Today, they live in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana and Wisconsin. Most families are farmers and adhere to a strict interpretation of the Bible. However, there are some tentative concessions to the modern world.

For more like this, follow this link

Skip next section About the show

About the show

DocFilm

Exciting stories, a wide variety of topics, fascinating pictures: every day, half or three-quarters of an hour of carefully researched background reports from the worlds of politics, business, science, culture, nature, history, lifestyle and sport.

Skip next section DW's Top Story

DW's Top Story

Skip next section More stories from DW

More stories from DW