Centrist belief is more a non-belief than a religion. Centrists take to heart the irrelevance doctrine and live under the assumption that their lives are meaningless to anyone but themselves and the people around them. Centrists tend to take a live and let live approach to all things and do not believe in killing another human.
Centrists tend to go with the flow of society and fit well into corporate organizations and roles.
Overview
Centrism, in the context of the Vox Mentis universe, is characterized more by its non-belief and philosophical stance than it is by organized religion or dogma. Centrists fundamentally embrace a worldview rooted in the Irrelevance Doctrine, which posits that human existence holds no intrinsic significance in the grand tapestry of the universe. This perspective shapes how Centrists think about life, death, and what may lie beyond.
Core Principles
Live and Let Live
Centrists tend to adopt a practical approach to existence, encompassing a belief in coexistence and tolerance. They prioritize personal freedom and the autonomy of individuals, advocating for a society where people can pursue their own paths without undue interference.
Irrelevance of Action
Given their alignment with the Irrelevance Doctrine, Centrists believe that human actions and decisions have no lasting impact on cosmic events. This belief fosters a sense of detachment from traditional constructs of morality, prompting them to engage with life in a manner that prioritizes personal fulfillment rather than societal legacy.
Human Relationships
In the absence of grand significance, personal relationships are viewed as one of the most vital aspects of life. Centrists value the connections they create with others, believing that the individuals in their immediate circles are what enrich their lives. Understanding, empathy, and mutual support are central themes in their interactions.
Thoughts on the Afterlife
Centrists generally hold a skeptical view regarding the afterlife. While they may ponder the possibility of an existence beyond death, they focus more on the tangible experiences of life rather than speculative afterlife scenarios. Their beliefs lean toward the following:
Existential Acceptance
Many Centrists accept the notion that death is the natural conclusion of life and that what happens afterward is ultimately irrelevant. They may find comfort in the idea that death is a return to the cosmic state from which life emerged, rather than a transition to a specific afterlife.
No Divine Judgment
In the absence of a deity or governing moral force, Centrists do not believe in divine judgment or rewards that follow death. They see life as an opportunity to find meaning and fulfillment within the time they have, rather than adhering to a framework that anticipates positive or negative consequences post-death.
Sanctity of Life
Centrists typically view the sanctity of life as a matter of personal and societal value rather than an absolute moral imperative. This perspective leads to nuanced beliefs regarding life and its termination:
Personal Autonomy
For Centrists, the sanctity of life is closely tied to individual autonomy and the right to make decisions regarding one's own existence. This belief may include support for assisted dying or euthanasia in circumstances where quality of life is severely diminished, provided individuals make such choices knowingly and willingly.
Value of Existence
While they may regard life as valuable, this value is seen as variable and subjective. The worth of existence is often evaluated based on personal fulfillment and societal contribution rather than an inherent moral status attached to being alive.
Preservation of Life
Centrists may advocate for the preservation of life, but not out of a belief in its absolute sanctity. Instead, they are motivated by the desire to enhance living conditions and maximize individual happiness and community well-being.
Social Integration
The pragmatic and non-confrontational nature of Centrist philosophy makes its adherents particularly well-suited to corporate life in the Corporate Era. Centrists' "live and let live" approach, combined with their focus on immediate personal relationships rather than cosmic significance, allows them to navigate corporate hierarchies and workplace dynamics without the friction that more ideologically driven individuals might experience.
This adaptability has made Centrism the de facto philosophical position of many workers and middle managers throughout human space. By accepting the Irrelevance Doctrine while maintaining a practical focus on day-to-day existence and interpersonal relationships, Centrists find meaning in their immediate circumstances rather than seeking grand purpose or challenging the fundamental structures of their society.
Philosophical Summary
Centrism offers a complex narrative that navigates the nuances of human existence. By embracing a philosophical outlook that prioritizes personal relationships, existential acceptance, and individual autonomy, Centrists advocate for a life lived with mindfulness toward the immediate experience, rather than a focus on cosmic significance or traditional moral constructs.