The Eight Paths: Reason
Reason is one of the Eight Paths available to your character.
Path Symbol: the eye of knowledge Guardian Clan: Order of Shalafi Opponent: Path of Rage Key words: eye, flow, development Skill groups: fundamentals of magic, transport magic, item magic
On the Path of Reason you will gain knowledge and wisdom, master the ancient secrets of magic, and acquire power over matter and energy. The foundation of the Path of Reason is the scientific method and deep study of the fundamentals of the universe. Reason in the broad sense is rational principle. The developed capacity to think and act based on logic and facts, to carefully calculate and weigh decisions that lead to a goal in the most reliable way.
Intellect, thinking, and reason are set against the affective sphere: feelings, emotions, moods, desires, and needs. To act rationally means to act while thinking through consequences. In contrast to impulsive creatures, rational beings live by projects: they define and analyse a problem, set goals, formulate strategy, and form a plan. Then, having gathered the necessary resources, they execute what was conceived. Will is not a part of reason but its assistant, because reason without will easily submits to feelings.
Not all creatures have any developed reason, and not all creatures use it. Many replace reason with social skills and good manners. And for some, religious dogmas substitute Reason and rationality.
Any socialised creature lives with its head, uses its mind and thinking rather than just reflexes, habits, and feelings. But mind is only the beginning of reason, its first step. Mind forms only one (its own) point of view.
When creatures develop the capacity and habit of using different perspectives -- thinking not only from their own point of view but also from the point of view of others, and from a position of objective observation and systemic approach -- Reason develops within them. Reason is an "upgraded mind" -- a synthesis of intellect, creativity, and ethics. When experience is added to reason, a creature becomes wise.
The Path of Reason is watched over by these gods and goddesses:
- Nofate, supreme god of science, the dispassionate demiurge who orders matter
- Ruffina, demiurgess of disorder who creates from chaos
- Kind, goddess of intellect and sorcerous wit, patron of the Shalafi
- Mihail, god of arcane might and magical enhancement
- Enki, god of knowledge and wisdom
This path suits those capable of casting spells (magic and prayers) -- and all who possess rational acuity, intellect, and clear-headed calculation. Belief in the gods of Reason is not at all required of followers of this Path.