A gnostic individual or belief system centers on the idea that a special, mystical knowledge (gnosis) is essential for understanding the world and achieving salvation. This knowledge, often considered secret or esoteric, is believed to provide insight into the divine and the nature of reality, typically emphasizing a spiritual understanding over material existence.

They believe that the material world is often flawed or illusory and that true liberation comes through transcending these material limitations. They often see themselves as seekers of higher wisdom and transformation of the self towards ultimate enlightenment.

Religious financial doctrines refer to economic principles and financial rules derived from/ rooted in religious teachings. For example, Islam has the Riba prohibition (ban on loan interest), Zakat (mandatory almsgiving for wealth redistribution) and Sukuk (interest-free Islamic bonds); Christianity has Ethical investing (avoiding businesses linked to alcohol or gambling) and Tithing (giving 10% of income to the church); Judaism has the Ribbit prohibition (bans charging interest to fellow Jews) and Shmita (debt forgiveness every seven years). 

Trauma porn refers to the use of graphic depictions of personal or collective suffering in film, often centered on themes like abuse, violence, or loss. The term is commonly applied when these portrayals appear central to a film’s emotional appeal or recognition. Examples of movies that symbolise this concept include: The Whale (2022), which follows an introverted man’s struggle with obesity and grief and The Sound of Freedom (2023), a story about child trafficking. The documentary Tell Me Who I Am (2019), which recounts a harrowing story of memory loss and childhood trauma is also a decent example.

A technology exists that is able to accurately measure the amount of sadness each person has. The machine is able to continuously disperse sadness to ensure everyone has an equal amount. The overall amount of sadness in the world can increase or decrease. The machine is unable to measure your other emotions, meaning you retain those.