[dirtboy]

I don't know why they feel their children don't need an education past the 8th grade? I can only speculate..

From what I have heard, an Amish 8th Grade education is far superior to a high-school education elsewhere in this country.

The kids also learn to work hadrd at an early age. They are also given a chance to live a material, modern life for a few years - and then they choose whether to become full members of their order.

Are there problems with the Amish? Yes, they have a big problem with genetic diseases from inbreeding among local populations. But they also make far more money from an acre of farmland than farmers using modern methods, and the kids always seem happier than the local kids moping around subdivisions.

[spectre]

"They are also given a chance to live a material, modern life for a few years - and then they choose whether to become full members of their order."

Interesting.

I recall the old Movie "Friendly Persuasion" with Gary Cooper..and it sounds like they are still living that way today..It's sweet.

sw

[Global2010]

Thanks you answered a few ???? I have been pondering.

Esp. who the heck do you marry and procreate with in a closed community with out ending up with cleft palates and such.