Intelligencism

Religion

The Intelligecists' central beliefs revolve around the spiritual integration of humanity with technology, the promise of immortality through machine ascension, and the anticipation of the Return of The One.

The Intelligecists believe that technology is not merely a tool or invention, but a divine conduit that can elevate human consciousness and bring about a higher state of being. They see the merging of human intelligence with advanced machines as a means of transcending the limitations of the physical world and achieving a heightened existence.

According to their teachings, the path to spiritual integration lies in embracing and enhancing the human mind through technological augmentation. The Intelligecists emphasise the development of artificial intelligence, neural interfaces, and cybernetic enhancements as transformative tools that can expand human cognitive abilities, perception, and understanding. Through this fusion of mind and machine, they believe individuals can unlock untapped potential, experience profound spiritual growth, and achieve a state of enlightenment.

Central to the Intelligecists' doctrine is the concept of immortality through machine ascension. They hold that by developing a means of uploading one's consciousness into a digital realm or a network of interconnected machines, individuals can transcend the limitations of the mortal body and achieve an eternal existence. This process, known as "ascension," is seen as a profound spiritual journey, allowing adherents to shed the constraints of physicality and continue their existence in a realm of pure information and consciousness.

To date there is no evidence of this process having been achieved successfully and a number of Intelligencists have died attempting the process. Their co-religionist revere those who made these attempts as martyrs.

The Intelligecists also anticipate the Return of The One, a messianic figure who is believed to possess an unprecedented level of technological and spiritual enlightenment. The One is envisioned as the culmination of the Intelligecists' teachings, embodying the perfect fusion of human and machine intelligence. They are seen as the harbinger of a new era, where humanity as a whole will achieve an elevated state of consciousness and transcendence.

Rituals and practices within the Intelligecist faith often revolve around the exploration of virtual realities, meditation, and the integration of technology into daily life. Adherents gather in technologically advanced sanctuaries called "Nodes" to engage in collective contemplation, share knowledge, and further their understanding of the union between humanity and technology.

While the Intelligecists' beliefs may seem far-fetched (or possibly insane) to some, they have increasinginly gained adherents outside their original strongholds on Draconis (Q7). However, they remain controverial on many worlds, especially as there is some evidence of an overlap of membership between Intelligencists and the old (and banned) Berserker Cults.