Sustaining Traditions and Surviving in the Modern World (Presentation Response)

Today we had the chance the view the presentations of all three groups and be able to compare these societies side by side, The Shakers, The Zoarites, and The Amish. I found that as the success of all three is varied, all of these societies speak to sustainability in culture and tradition as well as surviving in the modern world. I believe that these societies made it very clear that to what extent they sustained tradition and culture in a strong community really determined their survival/life span.

                The Shakers had their time of cultural sustainability as did the Zoarites; and the Amish, still going strong. What is significant to notice is that as Shaker and Zoar communities began to grow apart, their traditional values deteriorated and their communities ended. The Shakers, as we learned, began to grow apart as they became more immersed in American Industry and culture. Many communities resided close to American cities, which at the time of Shaker deterioration, were thriving and growing. Ultimately, many Shakers were drawn away into the exciting, and more rewarding benefits to American life. They were quickly able to forget the then, less useful traditions. The Zoarites experienced a similar downfall. As they also began to be more immersed in modern culture and they no longer had a leader to remind them of their cause, they began to grow apart as well. Their values, suddenly forgotten as no one was there to remind them of them. Both communities, torn apart by their easily rejected traditions, slowly began to be forgotten.

                On the other hand, with Amish residing father from cities, and having a strong persistence in maintaining tradition, they've been able to sustain themselves. We learned on our trip and through research that the Amish never forget their traditions and that they are the guidelines of their lives. Also, as they give their people the freedom of choice, they encourage membership and raise their children to be familiar with the benefits of Amish community. Their priorities and aspects of life allowed them to survive and thrive in the modern world.