The Rise and Fall of the Oneida Community

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the history and practices of the Oneida community of New York. It analyzes the leadership of John Humphrey Noyes, the evolution of the group and its attempts to combine communal living, polygamy and Christian beliefs to create a modern utopian community.

From the Paper:

"The concept of complex marriage was clearly revolutionary in the eyes of the majority of the country. Such a practice directly conflicted with the traditional religious views of most Americans, as did many of Noyes beliefs. However, there was some overlap in religious tradition. While Noyes was not a fan of church structures and public religious ritual, individual study of the Bible did occur and was encouraged within the Oneida community. In terms of labor division, Puritans believed in the concept of individuals being put on earth to fulfill certain tasks and roles. Similarly, the Oneida workforce allowed for members with a special skill or great interest in certain areas to use their constant work in such positions as a means to give back to the community and achieve happiness."

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