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Physicalism: Philosophy and Worldview

The Berythian Tradition, as per its focus on Matter, holds to a distinctive Perspective and philosophy known as Physicalism. Rooted in the profound exploration of the physical, inert world, Physicalism emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things and encourages mages to delve into the mysteries of the material realm, whose depths wait to be plumbed, and secret powers controlled. It consists in the main of the following:  
  I. The Primacy of the Physical: Physicalism espouses that the physical world serves as the primary domain of a mage's attention and exploration. Rather than delving into esoteric or abstract realms, Berythian elementalists believe that magic finds its greatest efficacy when engaged with the tangible and the inert. By directing their focus towards the physical, they uncover hidden wisdom and forge a profound connection with the world.   II. The Intrinsic Harmony of Elemental Forces: Central to Physicalism is the understanding that elemental forces permeate the physical world. Fire, water, earth, and air are not isolated entities but interwoven aspects of the fabric of existence. Berythian elementalists study the intricate interplay of these elements and seek to harmonize their forces within the inert world. By doing so, they unveil the underlying patterns, relationships, and correspondences that govern the natural order.   III. Alchemy of Matter and Energy: Physicalism embraces the alchemical exploration of Matter and Energy. Berythian elementalists delve into the transformation and transmutation of physical substances, perceiving them as manifestations of the interconnected elemental forces. Through rigorous experimentation and observation, they unravel the secrets of metamorphosis, seeking to harness and channel the energies inherent in the inert world.   IV. The Refined Art of Observation: Observation holds a crucial place in Physicalism. Berythian elementalists cultivate a keen sense of perception, honing their ability to discern subtleties within the physical realm. They perceive patterns, detect energies, and comprehend the intricate interplay of elemental forces. By observing the world with depth and clarity, they unlock the potential for profound magical insights and practical applications.   V. Practical Applications and Stewardship: Physicalism emphasizes the practical applications of magic within the physical realm. Berythian elementalists are attuned to the needs of their environment and strive to use their magic in a manner that promotes balance and stewardship. They apply their understanding of elemental forces to facilitate growth, healing, and sustainable practices that benefit both the natural world and society.   VI. The Pursuit of Mastery: Mastery within the Berythian Tradition lies in the comprehensive understanding of the physical world and the adept manipulation of its elemental forces. Physicalism demands dedication to continuous learning, rigorous experimentation, and the integration of knowledge into practice. Berythian elementalists aspire to become conduits of harmony and transformation, attaining mastery over the physical realm and their own inner selves.  
  Though the Tradition acknowledges the contributions of Mind and Prophecy/Time - the Objects of Focus of the Nurhetic and Aurimbic Traditions, respectively, Berythians argue that Matter provides the clearest foundation for understanding the universe. From their Perspective, the physical realm is accessible, observable, and yields practical outcomes, aligning with their focus on tangible results. By prioritizing Matter, they believe they can achieve a higher level of control, precision, and stability in their practices, bolstered by the rich historical foundation and continuity of Berythian alchemical and elemental study.   A deliberate exclusion of the non-physical underpins Berythian practice, informed by their Physicalist philosophy that emphasizes focused exploration and empirical evidence. Non-physical phenomena, though intellectually intriguing, are viewed as elusive and beyond practical manipulation, distracting from the productive study of the physical realm. This philosophy also cultivates a virtue of humility among Berythians, fostering respect for the unknown, acknowledging mortal limitations, and preserving balance by avoiding speculative realms that could distort their practical focus. Through this humility, Berythians maintain an attitude of lifelong learning, openness to knowledge exchange, and avoidance of hubris, which they believe keeps their tradition grounded in the physical world. At the same time, the importance of Will and Domination over this element being inert, can result in a forceful belief that their discipline among those of their fellow Council members is objectively superior - a fact they fail to mention in polite company. In addition to privileging a rationalist outlook, there is also a strong connection the Berythian Tradition has to mercantilism, which they consider a natural and good political system, logically based around physical commodities. They have enormous sympathies with nobles ancestrally on account of this, though the rise of the middle class in recent years under Niandrann Davinet, Duchess of Sabellis, has also benefited from this default view.   The Berythian Tradition’s approach embodies Physicalist principles, stressing responsibility, service to the common good, and transparent governance. Mentorship and the careful restriction of knowledge underscore their commitment to discipline, ethical character, and continuous education, aligning with their philosophy that understanding and manipulating the physical world should benefit society and contribute positively to the broader community. Thus, Berythians embrace their material focus as an enduring commitment to the practical and ethical application of magic, preserving a legacy of knowledge rooted in tangible reality.

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