Amish may be good Neighbors, but not their horses

Extract

[...] The clear distinctions between these groups not only demonstrate that they are two separate status groups, but additionally that the Amish are their own ethnic status group. In these two groups' conflict, we can see that both sides are either using or threatening social closure against one another. Analysis of the Evidence As the article says, debate shows fissures in the seemingly cordial relations between the Amish and the English,” and there is indeed strong evidence that although they live in the same area and use some of the same economic resources, they are two separate status groups. [...]

[...] While Weber says there may be some hierarchy in a status group, this does not contradict the basic level of mutual respect that members have for one another. Also, it is important to note that members of the same status group typically form communities and consciously recognize one another as people with common interests and values. In this way, Weber writes that status groups are created “subjectively,” by judgment of the people within the group. Because of this group consciousness and consequent role in individual members' identities, Weber adds that status groups are the type of group that most easily does collective action. [...]

[...] Similarly, the Amish have an attitude about the horse manure that sharply contrasts those of the English: good lord created the horse as a beast of burden, and he created it so it would be not so offensive an animal. The manure is much more unsightly than hazardous to health.” When we consider the Amish's “style of we know that their consumption patterns necessitate a certain intimacy and comfort with horses - and accompanying waste, flies, and smell - that the English largely do not have. [...]

[...] While Loyal is for the Amish a quick, convenient, and cheap market, they may disregard these interests so as to preserve their ethnic group's pride and self-respect. There is some more information about this situation which would help us understand it with a Weberian lens. For instance, it would be interesting to know if there is a serious health risk, as one resident suggests in the article, or if there is only a small chance of disease from the manure-hungry flies. [...]