Fornism

Forn-leið (also called fornism) is an ideology developed in Aedeland in the first half of the 74th century in response to industrialization.

Etymology

Forn-leið means "ancient way" in Old Aedelish.

Origins

The forn-leið movement traces its origins to the philosophical writings of Martin White, an Aedelmann and priest of The Faith. In the early decades of the 74th century, a proposal to construct a railway from Ålesund to Knivene created a national controversy. The proposed railway, backed by a group of wealthy noblemen, would require considerable national investment and divide hundreds of ancestral estates. The issue divided Aedeland, and the Althing was deadlocked. Many recognized that the railway plan was part of a larger controversy over the industrialization of Aedeland. In 7321, Martin White delivered a speech to the Althing in which he articulated his condemnation of industrialization.

Fundamental Concepts

Futility of Technology

"We own that which owns us."

In his writings, White condemned technology as futile. Referring to the controversy of his time, White explained that it is foolish to replace the horse, which creates wealth, with an iron horse (locomotive) that destroys wealth. The horse, as God's creation, grazes on open meadows, increases in value, and multiplies to the benefit of its owner. The iron horse, however, decays from the moment of its false creation and becomes the master of its owner. It can only benefit its master to the detriment of other men. White asks: "What use is this to Aedeland?"

Futility of Knowledge

"Ever learning without knowledge of the truth."

White condemned attempts to quantify human endeavors and to perfect human nature, seeing them as futile.

Futility of Pleasure

"Vanity of vanities, all is vanity and a striving after the wind."

White also criticized the pursuit of pleasure, viewing it as vain and empty.