Society Builders' Glossary

Cosmology

Systematic explanations of the Universe -- its organization and operation, and why it exists and works the way it does.

Diplomacy

Social actions and activities for purposes of establishing the authority of separate organizations. (See Politics)

Ethics

A system or group of systems for valuing choices in reference to an ideal. "General Ethics" combines ethics and etiquette ("little ethics").

Etiquette

A system or group of systems for choosing between ethically indifferent actions. Custom is usually part of etiquette. (See Ethics)

God

1. The personification of a principle or ideal.
2. An entity with power and abilities beyond those of mortals.
3. An object of worship.

Humanity

Any system of analysis and study of subjective phenomena like beauty, emotion, and thought. (Includes philosophy.)

Legend

A story intended to communicate some aspect of history or build interest in a particular topic.

Myth

A story or theme embodying cultural ideals or expectations which in turn support the story or theme.

Mythos (pl. Mythoi)

A structure of myths.

Paranormal

Pertaining to a direct effect upon the physical world through means that are not amenable to scientific analysis. May include magic, psionics, and mutant powers.

Politics

Social actions and activities involving the acquisition and transfer of authority within an organization of individuals. (See Diplomacy)

Religion

An association or system organized around devotion to a principle or group of principles.

Science

Any system of explanation and analysis based on the principles of logic, experimentation, and reproducibility. (Note: is not the same as Technology.)

Technology

The methods and materials used by a society to fashion and repair physical tools and their components, particularly those used in commerce and industry.