Page "Ordnung" Paragraph 19

Although Amish home and social life has remained mostly unaltered, a new technology can be considered into their society once it has passed a rigorous examination.

The Ordnung is used to examine any new proposed use of technology.

A proposal may be accepted for business reasons, but never for personal wishes, for entertainment or for self-indulgences.

A proposal will likely be rejected if it could have social implications.

A telephone in the home is prohibited among the Old Order Amish because it interferes with face-to-face visits with the neighbors.

Conversely, a few of the more liberal districts have allowed the telephone.

Any technology that is seen to be corrupting spiritual or family life is rejected out of hand.

Television would never be considered because it brings unbiblical values into the home.