Overview of Gor

A very different setting

Gor is distinct from both medieval Earth and typical medieval fantasy worlds like "Game of Thrones" in several significant ways.

Firstly, Gor's origin is extraterrestrial. It was transported to our solar system by the Priest-Kings, an advanced alien race, about two million years ago. This contrasts with medieval Earth, which developed naturally over time. The Priest-Kings have imposed strict technological limitations on Gor, maintaining a society that is closer to nature and less industrialized compared to medieval Earth, which saw gradual technological advancements.

Secondly, Gor's societal structure is unique. It is divided into High and Low Castes, with a system known as the Double Knowledge. The Low Castes are taught a series of falsehoods about the nature of reality, while the High Castes are privy to more accurate information. This educational disparity is not found in medieval fantasy worlds like "Game of Thrones," where knowledge is more uniformly distributed among the nobility and commoners.

Moreover, the concept of the Home Stone, a symbol of sovereignty and territory, is central to Gorean life and has no direct equivalent on medieval Earth or in typical medieval fantasy settings. The caste system and the pervasive institution of slavery also set Gor apart. While slavery exists in medieval fantasy worlds, it is not as universally accepted or as deeply integrated into the societal fabric as it is on Gor.

Additionally, Gor's environment and fauna are distinct. The planet has three moons and a different gravitational pull, which affects its climate and geography. Certain Earth animals, like horses and dogs, do not exist on Gor, and are replaced by creatures like kaiila and sleen. This contrasts with medieval fantasy worlds, which often feature Earth-like animals and ecosystems.

Lastly, the philosophical underpinnings of Gorean society differ significantly. Gorean morality is based on the acceptance of human nature and biological differences between men and women, promoting a master-slave dynamic. This is in stark contrast to the more egalitarian or feudal systems seen in medieval fantasy worlds like "Game of Thrones," where power dynamics are more fluid and based on political maneuvering rather than inherent biological roles.

In summary, Gor's alien origin, unique societal structures, distinct environment, and philosophical foundations make it fundamentally different from medieval Earth and typical medieval fantasy worlds.

Ethics and Values on Gor: A Summary

Gorean ethics and values are deeply rooted in the societal and cultural structures of Gor, emphasizing a distinct set of principles that differ significantly from those on Earth. Here are the key aspects:

Caste Codes

• Caste-Specific Ethics: Each caste on Gor has its own set of codes that dictate the ethical standards and behaviors expected of its members. These codes are professional in nature, guiding individuals on how to perform their roles within their caste.
• Honor: Honor is a central value in Gorean society, closely tied to adherence to one's caste codes. A person who fails to follow their caste codes is often seen as lacking honor.

Virtue Ethics

• Cardinal Virtues: Gorean morality is heavily influenced by ancient Greek and Roman virtue ethics, focusing on the four cardinal virtues: wisdom, courage, self-control, and justice. These virtues form the core of Gorean ethical standards.
• Agent-Centered Morality: Gorean ethics emphasize the cultivation of personal virtues over adherence to a strict set of rules. This approach is about becoming a good person through the development of virtues rather than merely following prescribed actions.

General Ethical Principles

• Natural Order: Goreans believe in living in accordance with nature, which includes accepting natural hierarchies and the dominance of males over females. This principle is ingrained in their societal norms and behaviors.
• Honor and Truth: Goreans take concepts like honor and truth very seriously. Honesty is valued, but there are acceptable exceptions, such as subterfuge in warfare. A person's sworn word is considered a matter of honor.

Societal Norms

• Hierarchy and Inequality: Gorean society is hierarchical, and individuals are not considered equal. This belief in natural inequality influences their social interactions and ethical considerations.
• Cultural Conditioning: The principles of Gorean ethics are so ingrained in their culture that they are second nature to its people. These principles are rarely questioned and are maintained through strong traditions.

In summary, Gorean ethics and values are centered around the cultivation of personal virtues, adherence to caste-specific codes, and living in accordance with the natural order. Honor, courage, and truth are paramount, and societal norms are deeply hierarchical and traditional.