Beliefs

For World Building, Belief systems include religious, spiritual, magical, scientific and agnostic views. Atheism shouldn't be left out either for it is a belief in no God. Belief systems usually exist in order to provide answers. Many belief systems are built on trust and hope while others search for answers through experience, research and evidence.

Even in our world there are hundreds of different belief systems and within these belief systems are other variations. Religion encompasses such beliefs as Christianity, Muslim, Hindu, Budhism, Witchcraft and Paganism. Each of these beliefts are supported by organisations which have different arms or factions with varied beliefs, sometimes in contradiction to each other. Science too, is full of contradictions as are other beliefs.

Characteristics of Beliefs

• provides answers to the creation of existence
• includes repetitive rituals and devotions
• may provide moral codes
• often based on faith
• different strands have varied philosophies
• may involve the worship of at least one Idol
• not infalable to corruption of ideas (contradictions) or administration.

Template for a Belief System

The template can be completed with the Questions listed below.

Name:

Basis:

Gods, Dietys, Idols (real or fictious?):

Year discovered / followed:

Sanctioned:

Number of followers:

Order of officers / ranking:

Noteable Rituals:

Moral Codes:

Religious Holidays:

Religous Book / Paper:

Meeting Place:

Effect on Government:

Effect on Society:

Main Organisations:

Real / Not Real / Unknown:

Questions

When did the belief begin? (This may be different to what the followers of the belief believe.)
How did the belief begin? (This may be different to what the followers of the belief believe.)
What is the belief?
Who started the belief?
How has the belief evolved?
Is there an institution that supports the belief?
How has the belief effected the culture of the Civilisation?
How has the belief effected the governing of the Civilisation?
Is the belief real or fictional?
What are the benefits of the belief?
What are the disadvantages of the belief?