Carl Bowman examines how and why members of the Church of the Brethren - historically known as "Dunkers" after their method of baptism - were assimilated faster and earlier than their Amish, Mennonite, or even Hutterite cousins. Brethren Society brings to light the members' own conversations and debates on a series of pivotal controversies. Bowman shows how Brethren dealt with issues such as membership in "outside" organizations; the salaried ministry; acceptance of revivalistic styles of worship and music; particitation in the American political process; military service; the holy kiss; the temperance movement; and the "plain garb."