Meagloth's Alignment Test
Ok, so the the alignment, class and race sections are finished, but stats are harder to do in pen and paper. If anyone knows how I could get this online that'd be great. In order to score this you get a piece of paper and make a chart that looks like this:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
And make mark an x next to the number corresponding to the answer to the question. Do the same with the letters for class:
A.
Z.
X.
E.
F.
I.
Y.
H.
J.
G.
And then for race:
W.
F.
K.
X.
H.
S.
V.
Test:
The ultimate goal of life is to: (1)help those less fortunate (2)be content with what you have (3)Win.
Is it better to be: (1)loved (2)known for who you really are (3)feared
Is it important to let everyone have a second chance? (1)yes (2)sometimes (3)no
Laws: (4)are usually unnecessary (5)are generally helpful, but I don't follow all of them (6)are a necessary and integral part of society
You and your friends are chased by a bear, to stay alive you: (1)defend yourself and your friends (2)run faster than the guy behind you (3) throw the other guy to the bear.
The best use of wealth is: (1) to help those less fortunate (2) Buying things(3) gain more wealth
The suffering of others: (1) should be stopped(2)happens (3)can be used to my advantage
I have the most fun: (6)with my friends, doing something organized and/or familiar (5) with people I like (4) doing something new and interesting
The country is being invaded by Belgium. You: (6)do what you can to aid the war effort(5)run away as soon as things look grim (4)cut a deal with Belgium an spy.
I admire someone who:(6)champions the law (5)works with the law(4)boldly defies the law
You are in the position to deal justice to the person who murdered your beloved. You have him at gun point and he has surrendered. He apologizes,You: (7) tell him that he is forgiven. (8) tell him he is a despicable person, and demand the heaviest possible punishment. (9) torture him for a while until he finally croaks
A man that put you In Prison for a crime you didn't do confronts you. He apologizes, and say that the only way he can feel better is for you to take this $5000. You have been quite successful, despite your stay In Prison, and you have no need of $5000. You: (7) take the money, but slip it back to him in the night. (8) take the money (9) refuse the money, though he insists.
A hoard of barbarians invade a village you are staying at. You: (1)investigate the cause, try to reason with the leader (2)run away. (3)use the chaos to sack the village
robbers are invading your home for a prize diamond. You: (7) give them the diamond. (8) fight back (9) throw the diamond into the sea
Someone has legally obtain possession of your favorite painting. You: (7) let it go, you can still get a print, and he he must really want it if he fought hard in court to get it. (8) try to steal it back without getting caught, despite it being very risky (9) deface the painting. If you can't have it, no one can.
Someone takes your cookie out of the office fridge. You: (1) get over it (2)stop using the office fridge for cookies (3) take a yogurt out
You see that the person next to you is cheating on their test. You: (6) notify your teacher (5)do nothing (4) try to get the cheat sheet away from him.
You're offered a $100 bribe to fix a second grade soccer match. You: (6) notify the coaches (5) refuse, but don't mention it (4) agree. Its just a 2nd grade soccer match....
Is it ever ok to lie? (6)only very rarely (5)sometimes (4)of course
Which personality trait is the most valuable? (1)compassion (2)patience (3)ruthlessness
What is more important? (1)doing the "right" thing (2)doing the "correct" thing (3)doing the "best" thing
What is the most valuable thing on this list? (1)moral and ethical success (2)social success (3)financial success
Which statement best describes humanity? (1)a imperfect beauty (2)it is what it is (3)a thing to be exploited
{class}In high school I was a: (A)jock (Z)outdoorsy kid (X)Boy Scout (E)the clever prankster (F)environmentalist (I)nerd (Y)dreamy idealist (G)youth group kid (H)something else..... (J)martial arts kid
My friends say I'm: (A)strong and athletic (Z)outdoorsy and adventurous (X)a bit self righteous, but charismatic (E)clever and tricksy (F)a bit... "Hippie" (I)bookish and well learned (Y)friendly and creative (G)devoted to my religion (H)batsh*t crazy (J)tough, disciplined, and religious
If I could have a superpower it would be:(A)incredible strength (Z)incredible durability/toughness (X)flight (E)incredible stealth (F)ability to talk at animals (I)incredibly intelligence (Y)incredible physical beauty (G)incredible wisdom (H)incredible influence over people (J)incredible quickness and fighting ability
My best quality is my:(A)physical strength (Z)physical durability (X)righteousness (E)skill with mechanical things (Y)people skills (I)intellect (J)discipline (G)faith (H)sense of humor (F)love of nature
My dream job is: (A)star athlete(Z)park ranger/mountain climber (X)politician/law enforcement (E)inventor/mechanic (F)environmental activist (I)academic/scientist (H)entrepreneur/business manager (Y)artist/media personality (G)spiritual leader (J)martial artist
If I was in I fight I would use a(assuming they are all equally effective): (A)sword(Z)big stick (X)hit very hard with the sword of righteousness! (E)a very sharp wit (F)something with thorns (I)running (Y)smile and calm words (G)reason and perspective (H)sheer force of will! and maybe a little running (J)punches and kicks
I would rather watch: (A)ESPN (Z)nature documentary(X)cable news (E)Comedy (F)the Inconvenient truth (I)science documentary (Y)the newest music videos (H)a psychology documentary (J)nothing (this is NOT none of the above)
It is better to be: (A)strong (Z)tough (X)righteous (E)quick (F)natural (I)smart (Y)well liked (G)wise (H)unique (J)disciplined
My favorite clothes to wear everyday are: (A)camo vests and cargo pants (Z)something practical, neutral colored, quiet (X)snazzy suites (E)something nondescript with lots of pockets (F)environmentally friendly, fair trade clothing. (I)jacket and bow tie(Y)whatever's in Style, I am very chick (G)modest, reasonable clothing (H)ROBES! bright, shiny robes! Or whatever's clean.... (J)practical, comfortable clothes, I don't care how I look.
The outdoors should be: (+F)protected from human development entirely (-[no effect]) used responsibly and enjoyed (-F) destroyed. Burn baby burn!
If I witnessed a mugging, I would: (X)jump in and save the victim (-)call the authorities (-X)run away
If provided with the opportunity to learn a new martial art, I: (A) gladly accept! I'm always learning new ways to defend myself. (-)accept, but only cause it's free and my friend wanted me to. (-A) decline. Learning to fight just isn't practical.
My friends are going on a hike and invite me to come. I: (Z)offer to lead the hike, and point out interesting natural features. (-)agree to come along. It'll be fun. (-Z)decline. I hate hiking, and the outdoors in general.
There is a talk being given in town on a new astrophysics concept. I would: (I)definitely go. I love science. (-)look into it. I might go if I'm not doing anything else. (-I)not even consider going. Science is boring.
Which statement best describes you: (E)I often hear, "oh! I hadn't realized you where there. (-)I'm not particularly stealthy (-E)I cannot hide. When I try to sneak up on my friends, they laugh at me without even looking over their shoulders.
I am: (G)very religious. My faith permeates every area of my life. (-)not particularly spiritual, but I respect religion and maybe sometimes go to church/mass or whatever is the norm (-G)I find the Idea of god ridiculous.
I am: (H)incredibly weird and unique. I. am. *special*. (-)just as unique as the next guy. Everybody's different (-H)completely normal.
I play a musical instrument: (Y)very well (-)I took some music classes in school, but I never took it father than that. (-Y)I can not carry a tune in a bucket.
I am: (J)a skilled, devoted, disciplined martial artist. (-)I took some karate as a kid... (-J)when my friends jokingly hit me, I crumple up into a ball and prepare for the end.
How important is it to be strong? (A)incredibly (-)not a huge priority, but it's important to stay fit (-A)not very
Is it helpful to get into the outdoors a lot?(Z)very, it should be done regularly (-)it can be helpful (-Z)not super important
Fid you ever consider a career in law enforcement? (X)I am/intend to be (-)it may have crossed my mind, but not really (-X)I could never do that
Fo you have good finger dexterity? (E)very good (-)about average (-EI am quite the butterfingers
Is it important to be funny? (H)very (-)it's ok (-H)not at all
Do you believe in your principles strongly? (G)very, very strongly (-)I believe what I know (-)I easily accept new ideas
Would it be nice to spend I night outdoors without a cot or tent? (F)yes (-)maybe if it wasn't cold (-F)that sounds disgusting
How important is music to a happy life? (Y)very (-)it helps some (-Y)it isn't necessary
Are you interested in science and history? (I)very (-)sometimes (-I)not at all
Is there any benefit to regular meditation? (J)definitely (-)maybe occasionally (-J)probably not.
{race}When it comes to build I am: (W)tall and extremely skinny (F) a bit taller and skinnier than average, but nothing special. (K) average (X) shorter than average, but average build otherwise. (H) short and a bit plump (S) short and skinny (V) very large. I am taller and heavier than average
My strongest characteristic is my: (S) intellect (V) general physical ability (H) skill with my hands, fine motor skill. I am a (K)nothing in particular (F)I don't have any specialty, but I seem to be good at everything I try (X) my toughness. I can take some punches, and some beers. (W) my likability/ appearance
People describe my facial features as: (H) friendly and a little cherubic (V) broad, muscular and tough looking. Actually a bit ugly, according to some people (K) nothing special, really. Just average. (W)pointed and devilish. foxy. (F) not particularly striking, but i think I'm prettier than most.
It is better to be: (S) smart (-S) wise
It is better have: (H)finger dexterity (-H)physical strength
What are you better at? (W)large motor skill (H)fine motor skill
It is better to be: (X)(-S)tough (-X)(S)quick
It's better to be: (V)strong and tough (-V) wise and intelligent
Its better to be: (K)Normal (-)different
It's better to: (F)have a specialty (-F) do everything alright
It's better to be a: (K) jack of all trades (-K) be a specialist.
When you finish that you can look at the key:
1-good
2-neutral
3-evil
4-chaotic
5-neutral
6-lawful
7-forgiving
8-vengeful
9-spiteful
A-fighter
Z-ranger
X-paladin
Y-bard
E-thief
F-Druid
G-cleric
H-sorcerer
I-Mage
J-monk
K-human
F-half elf
W-elf
S-gnome
Z-halfling
X-dwarf
V-half Orc
*sorry, but there was a thread merge against my will, and this has gotten a bit confusing.*
This is the beginning of the thread that was merged:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
And make mark an x next to the number corresponding to the answer to the question. Do the same with the letters for class:
A.
Z.
X.
E.
F.
I.
Y.
H.
J.
G.
And then for race:
W.
F.
K.
X.
H.
S.
V.
Test:
The ultimate goal of life is to: (1)help those less fortunate (2)be content with what you have (3)Win.
Is it better to be: (1)loved (2)known for who you really are (3)feared
Is it important to let everyone have a second chance? (1)yes (2)sometimes (3)no
Laws: (4)are usually unnecessary (5)are generally helpful, but I don't follow all of them (6)are a necessary and integral part of society
You and your friends are chased by a bear, to stay alive you: (1)defend yourself and your friends (2)run faster than the guy behind you (3) throw the other guy to the bear.
The best use of wealth is: (1) to help those less fortunate (2) Buying things(3) gain more wealth
The suffering of others: (1) should be stopped(2)happens (3)can be used to my advantage
I have the most fun: (6)with my friends, doing something organized and/or familiar (5) with people I like (4) doing something new and interesting
The country is being invaded by Belgium. You: (6)do what you can to aid the war effort(5)run away as soon as things look grim (4)cut a deal with Belgium an spy.
I admire someone who:(6)champions the law (5)works with the law(4)boldly defies the law
You are in the position to deal justice to the person who murdered your beloved. You have him at gun point and he has surrendered. He apologizes,You: (7) tell him that he is forgiven. (8) tell him he is a despicable person, and demand the heaviest possible punishment. (9) torture him for a while until he finally croaks
A man that put you In Prison for a crime you didn't do confronts you. He apologizes, and say that the only way he can feel better is for you to take this $5000. You have been quite successful, despite your stay In Prison, and you have no need of $5000. You: (7) take the money, but slip it back to him in the night. (8) take the money (9) refuse the money, though he insists.
A hoard of barbarians invade a village you are staying at. You: (1)investigate the cause, try to reason with the leader (2)run away. (3)use the chaos to sack the village
robbers are invading your home for a prize diamond. You: (7) give them the diamond. (8) fight back (9) throw the diamond into the sea
Someone has legally obtain possession of your favorite painting. You: (7) let it go, you can still get a print, and he he must really want it if he fought hard in court to get it. (8) try to steal it back without getting caught, despite it being very risky (9) deface the painting. If you can't have it, no one can.
Someone takes your cookie out of the office fridge. You: (1) get over it (2)stop using the office fridge for cookies (3) take a yogurt out
You see that the person next to you is cheating on their test. You: (6) notify your teacher (5)do nothing (4) try to get the cheat sheet away from him.
You're offered a $100 bribe to fix a second grade soccer match. You: (6) notify the coaches (5) refuse, but don't mention it (4) agree. Its just a 2nd grade soccer match....
Is it ever ok to lie? (6)only very rarely (5)sometimes (4)of course
Which personality trait is the most valuable? (1)compassion (2)patience (3)ruthlessness
What is more important? (1)doing the "right" thing (2)doing the "correct" thing (3)doing the "best" thing
What is the most valuable thing on this list? (1)moral and ethical success (2)social success (3)financial success
Which statement best describes humanity? (1)a imperfect beauty (2)it is what it is (3)a thing to be exploited
{class}In high school I was a: (A)jock (Z)outdoorsy kid (X)Boy Scout (E)the clever prankster (F)environmentalist (I)nerd (Y)dreamy idealist (G)youth group kid (H)something else..... (J)martial arts kid
My friends say I'm: (A)strong and athletic (Z)outdoorsy and adventurous (X)a bit self righteous, but charismatic (E)clever and tricksy (F)a bit... "Hippie" (I)bookish and well learned (Y)friendly and creative (G)devoted to my religion (H)batsh*t crazy (J)tough, disciplined, and religious
If I could have a superpower it would be:(A)incredible strength (Z)incredible durability/toughness (X)flight (E)incredible stealth (F)ability to talk at animals (I)incredibly intelligence (Y)incredible physical beauty (G)incredible wisdom (H)incredible influence over people (J)incredible quickness and fighting ability
My best quality is my:(A)physical strength (Z)physical durability (X)righteousness (E)skill with mechanical things (Y)people skills (I)intellect (J)discipline (G)faith (H)sense of humor (F)love of nature
My dream job is: (A)star athlete(Z)park ranger/mountain climber (X)politician/law enforcement (E)inventor/mechanic (F)environmental activist (I)academic/scientist (H)entrepreneur/business manager (Y)artist/media personality (G)spiritual leader (J)martial artist
If I was in I fight I would use a(assuming they are all equally effective): (A)sword(Z)big stick (X)hit very hard with the sword of righteousness! (E)a very sharp wit (F)something with thorns (I)running (Y)smile and calm words (G)reason and perspective (H)sheer force of will! and maybe a little running (J)punches and kicks
I would rather watch: (A)ESPN (Z)nature documentary(X)cable news (E)Comedy (F)the Inconvenient truth (I)science documentary (Y)the newest music videos (H)a psychology documentary (J)nothing (this is NOT none of the above)
It is better to be: (A)strong (Z)tough (X)righteous (E)quick (F)natural (I)smart (Y)well liked (G)wise (H)unique (J)disciplined
My favorite clothes to wear everyday are: (A)camo vests and cargo pants (Z)something practical, neutral colored, quiet (X)snazzy suites (E)something nondescript with lots of pockets (F)environmentally friendly, fair trade clothing. (I)jacket and bow tie(Y)whatever's in Style, I am very chick (G)modest, reasonable clothing (H)ROBES! bright, shiny robes! Or whatever's clean.... (J)practical, comfortable clothes, I don't care how I look.
The outdoors should be: (+F)protected from human development entirely (-[no effect]) used responsibly and enjoyed (-F) destroyed. Burn baby burn!
If I witnessed a mugging, I would: (X)jump in and save the victim (-)call the authorities (-X)run away
If provided with the opportunity to learn a new martial art, I: (A) gladly accept! I'm always learning new ways to defend myself. (-)accept, but only cause it's free and my friend wanted me to. (-A) decline. Learning to fight just isn't practical.
My friends are going on a hike and invite me to come. I: (Z)offer to lead the hike, and point out interesting natural features. (-)agree to come along. It'll be fun. (-Z)decline. I hate hiking, and the outdoors in general.
There is a talk being given in town on a new astrophysics concept. I would: (I)definitely go. I love science. (-)look into it. I might go if I'm not doing anything else. (-I)not even consider going. Science is boring.
Which statement best describes you: (E)I often hear, "oh! I hadn't realized you where there. (-)I'm not particularly stealthy (-E)I cannot hide. When I try to sneak up on my friends, they laugh at me without even looking over their shoulders.
I am: (G)very religious. My faith permeates every area of my life. (-)not particularly spiritual, but I respect religion and maybe sometimes go to church/mass or whatever is the norm (-G)I find the Idea of god ridiculous.
I am: (H)incredibly weird and unique. I. am. *special*. (-)just as unique as the next guy. Everybody's different (-H)completely normal.
I play a musical instrument: (Y)very well (-)I took some music classes in school, but I never took it father than that. (-Y)I can not carry a tune in a bucket.
I am: (J)a skilled, devoted, disciplined martial artist. (-)I took some karate as a kid... (-J)when my friends jokingly hit me, I crumple up into a ball and prepare for the end.
How important is it to be strong? (A)incredibly (-)not a huge priority, but it's important to stay fit (-A)not very
Is it helpful to get into the outdoors a lot?(Z)very, it should be done regularly (-)it can be helpful (-Z)not super important
Fid you ever consider a career in law enforcement? (X)I am/intend to be (-)it may have crossed my mind, but not really (-X)I could never do that
Fo you have good finger dexterity? (E)very good (-)about average (-EI am quite the butterfingers
Is it important to be funny? (H)very (-)it's ok (-H)not at all
Do you believe in your principles strongly? (G)very, very strongly (-)I believe what I know (-)I easily accept new ideas
Would it be nice to spend I night outdoors without a cot or tent? (F)yes (-)maybe if it wasn't cold (-F)that sounds disgusting
How important is music to a happy life? (Y)very (-)it helps some (-Y)it isn't necessary
Are you interested in science and history? (I)very (-)sometimes (-I)not at all
Is there any benefit to regular meditation? (J)definitely (-)maybe occasionally (-J)probably not.
{race}When it comes to build I am: (W)tall and extremely skinny (F) a bit taller and skinnier than average, but nothing special. (K) average (X) shorter than average, but average build otherwise. (H) short and a bit plump (S) short and skinny (V) very large. I am taller and heavier than average
My strongest characteristic is my: (S) intellect (V) general physical ability (H) skill with my hands, fine motor skill. I am a (K)nothing in particular (F)I don't have any specialty, but I seem to be good at everything I try (X) my toughness. I can take some punches, and some beers. (W) my likability/ appearance
People describe my facial features as: (H) friendly and a little cherubic (V) broad, muscular and tough looking. Actually a bit ugly, according to some people (K) nothing special, really. Just average. (W)pointed and devilish. foxy. (F) not particularly striking, but i think I'm prettier than most.
It is better to be: (S) smart (-S) wise
It is better have: (H)finger dexterity (-H)physical strength
What are you better at? (W)large motor skill (H)fine motor skill
It is better to be: (X)(-S)tough (-X)(S)quick
It's better to be: (V)strong and tough (-V) wise and intelligent
Its better to be: (K)Normal (-)different
It's better to: (F)have a specialty (-F) do everything alright
It's better to be a: (K) jack of all trades (-K) be a specialist.
When you finish that you can look at the key:
1-good
2-neutral
3-evil
4-chaotic
5-neutral
6-lawful
7-forgiving
8-vengeful
9-spiteful
A-fighter
Z-ranger
X-paladin
Y-bard
E-thief
F-Druid
G-cleric
H-sorcerer
I-Mage
J-monk
K-human
F-half elf
W-elf
S-gnome
Z-halfling
X-dwarf
V-half Orc
*sorry, but there was a thread merge against my will, and this has gotten a bit confusing.*
This is the beginning of the thread that was merged:
As you all know, the d&d alignment system, while intriguing, has some holes. It is two dimensional. There is the dimension of law and chaos, and the plane of good and evil. These combine to form the alignments we all know and love. But then there is always that person that defies alignment, that friend you can't quite shove into one of our nine boxes. What then? Even in the game there are characters that have the label of "true neutral" slapped onto them because they don't exhibit any characteristics of the alignments. They seem to have no opinion. Yoshimo and Skie come to mind, and Garrick with his unconvincing chaotic neutral.
The current system is flat, and this is an easy fix, that anyone who doesn't like can ignore. We simply add a third dimension. At this point it get more complicated, however. What shall this axis be? After a few bad ideas, and an embarrassing number of worse ones, I came out with forgiving to spiteful, with vengeful in the middle. Forgiveness is a common concept, but the idea of spite could take some explaining here. Spite, in this case, means that you are willing to cause pain to someone else, just to harm them, even at no benefit, or even at cost to themselves. Examples would be defacing a painting so that your enemy can't have it, or throwing a diamond into the sea to keep it from thieves. The "If I can't have it, nobody can!" Mentality.
These are the 5 questions I have in my alignment test to determine spite vs. forgiveness.
You are in the position to deal justice to the person who murdered your beloved. You have him at gun point and he has surrendered. You: (F) tell him that he is forgiven. (V) tell him he is a despicable person, and demand the heaviest possible punishment. (S) torture him for a while until he finally croaks
A man that put you In Prison for a crime you didn't do confronts you. He apologizes, and say that the only way he can feel better is for you to take this $5000. You have been quite successful, despite your stay In Prison, and you have no need of $5000. It's clearly the mans entire savings. You: (F) take the money, but slip it back to him in the night. (V) take the money (S) refuse the money, though he insists.
A hoard of barbarians invade a village you are staying at. You: (F) investigate the cause, try to reason with the leader (V)smite them. (S) use the chaos to sack the village
Robbers are invading your home for a prize diamond. You: (F) give them the diamond. Better it than you (V) fight back (S) throw the diamond into the sea
Someone has legally obtain possession of your favorite painting. You: (F) let it go, you can still get a print, and he he must really want it if he fought hard in court to get it. (V) try to steal it back without getting caught, despite it being very risky (S) deface the painting. If you can't have it, no one can.
Some examples of the sticky ones like "forgiving neutral evil" and "spiteful lawful good":
Currently, an evil character is a self-serving jackass. This spectrum separates the "self-serving" and the "jackass", so a forgiving evil character would be able to forget a persons past actions if it came as a benefited to them. They simply look out for their own interests, regardless of how they get what they want.
"Spiteful good" would probably be what we now call "lawful stupid", or close to it. Someone who is usual selfless and helpful, but an all-around dick and asshole. I would imagine this character is probably very rare, but that's what the said about true neutral.
While this would cause more controversy, I wish we had a better axis than good to evil. This spectrum is incepredibly bias and judgmental, and difficult to get right. I like law v. chaos a lot because it's very neutral. Few people are going to accuse you of being "chaotic" or "lawful". Good and evil is a different story. My system clearly doesn't fix this; most people would like to be able to say they are forgiving, and no one wants to be spiteful, really. It's a little less judgmental, but it's still pretty high and mighty.
My system clearly has it's drawbacks, and the option I provide is by no means perfect. Please share your thoughts and ideas.(no really, I mean it. I want to steal you ideas.)
I also considered putting "vengeance" at the end and neutral in the middle, but it don't know about that.
The current system is flat, and this is an easy fix, that anyone who doesn't like can ignore. We simply add a third dimension. At this point it get more complicated, however. What shall this axis be? After a few bad ideas, and an embarrassing number of worse ones, I came out with forgiving to spiteful, with vengeful in the middle. Forgiveness is a common concept, but the idea of spite could take some explaining here. Spite, in this case, means that you are willing to cause pain to someone else, just to harm them, even at no benefit, or even at cost to themselves. Examples would be defacing a painting so that your enemy can't have it, or throwing a diamond into the sea to keep it from thieves. The "If I can't have it, nobody can!" Mentality.
These are the 5 questions I have in my alignment test to determine spite vs. forgiveness.
You are in the position to deal justice to the person who murdered your beloved. You have him at gun point and he has surrendered. You: (F) tell him that he is forgiven. (V) tell him he is a despicable person, and demand the heaviest possible punishment. (S) torture him for a while until he finally croaks
A man that put you In Prison for a crime you didn't do confronts you. He apologizes, and say that the only way he can feel better is for you to take this $5000. You have been quite successful, despite your stay In Prison, and you have no need of $5000. It's clearly the mans entire savings. You: (F) take the money, but slip it back to him in the night. (V) take the money (S) refuse the money, though he insists.
A hoard of barbarians invade a village you are staying at. You: (F) investigate the cause, try to reason with the leader (V)smite them. (S) use the chaos to sack the village
Robbers are invading your home for a prize diamond. You: (F) give them the diamond. Better it than you (V) fight back (S) throw the diamond into the sea
Someone has legally obtain possession of your favorite painting. You: (F) let it go, you can still get a print, and he he must really want it if he fought hard in court to get it. (V) try to steal it back without getting caught, despite it being very risky (S) deface the painting. If you can't have it, no one can.
Some examples of the sticky ones like "forgiving neutral evil" and "spiteful lawful good":
Currently, an evil character is a self-serving jackass. This spectrum separates the "self-serving" and the "jackass", so a forgiving evil character would be able to forget a persons past actions if it came as a benefited to them. They simply look out for their own interests, regardless of how they get what they want.
"Spiteful good" would probably be what we now call "lawful stupid", or close to it. Someone who is usual selfless and helpful, but an all-around dick and asshole. I would imagine this character is probably very rare, but that's what the said about true neutral.
While this would cause more controversy, I wish we had a better axis than good to evil. This spectrum is incepredibly bias and judgmental, and difficult to get right. I like law v. chaos a lot because it's very neutral. Few people are going to accuse you of being "chaotic" or "lawful". Good and evil is a different story. My system clearly doesn't fix this; most people would like to be able to say they are forgiving, and no one wants to be spiteful, really. It's a little less judgmental, but it's still pretty high and mighty.
My system clearly has it's drawbacks, and the option I provide is by no means perfect. Please share your thoughts and ideas.(no really, I mean it. I want to steal you ideas.)
I also considered putting "vengeance" at the end and neutral in the middle, but it don't know about that.
Post edited by meagloth on
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Comments
What I ask of you is just a little help. I wanted about 30-40 questions, which turns out to be a lot. So if you have any interesting questions to share, then that is welcome. Discussion about the questions would also be fun.
Here's what I have so far: (yes I know the superhero one is a big iffy. Any suggestions for neutral superheroes?)
1. I am a: (G)good person (N) generally neutral person (E)a despicable person.
2. Laws: (C)get in my way (N)are generally helpful, but I don't follow all of them (L)are a necessary part of society
3.To be successful in life, one must: (G)work well with people and take opportunities (L)do better than everyone else (E)crush those less than you.
4. You and your friends are chased by a bear, to stay alive you: (G)defend yourself and your friends (N)run faster than the guy behind you (E) throw the other guy to the bear.
5. The best use of wealth is: (G) to help those less fortunate (N) To benefit yourself and those you love (E) personal gain and power
6. Pain: (G) is unfortunate (N) happens (E) is fun to watch
7. My preferred superhero is: (L) superman (N) nick fury(eyepatch guy) (C) batman
8. Life is about: (L)finding order and reason (N) life is. The reason hardly matters (C) experiencing things
9. I have the most fun: (L)with my friends, doing something organized and/or familiar (N) with people I like (C) doing something new and interesting
10. The primary function of (perfect) government is to: (L) advance society (N) better peoples' lives (C) better my life
More likely sentences that people might actually self-report on a psychological profile would be sentences that capture actually possible opinions, combined with how far the person would go to promote that opinion.
"I believe everyone should be armed at all times, or at least have a weapon close by."
"The role of government is to defend the borders of the country, and nothing more."
"The role of government is to guarantee the welfare of all citizens."
"My religion is absolutely correct. All other religions are false or created by evil powers."
"People should live in harmony with the environment, the animals, and the plants."
"People were given dominion over nature by God, and should do whatever they damn well please with animals and plants."
"People are basically good and trustworthy."
"People are all out for themselves, and you'd damn well better do unto them before they do unto you, and they will, if you let them."
"Every human has an obligation to support his or her fellow human for the comfort and betterment of all."
"Every human needs to take care of him or herself and his or her family first and foremost, and then to the specific country, city, or tribe to which one belongs, because resources are limited, and the next person over will be all too glad to take everything from you and let your children starve."
"Violence is never justified, under any circumstances."
"Sometimes violence is justified, especially in self-defense."
"Violence is only justified if the other party attacks you first."
"Pre-emptive violence is justified, if you have good evidence that the other party has nefarious intent towards you and yours."
"You will pry my sword/gun/nuclear weapons from my cold, dead hands. And get off my property! One....two..... BANG."
"The rights of the individual outweigh all other considerations. My freedom to do whatever I damn well please is of paramount importance."
"Individual liberty is of extreme importance, but must be balanced against the rights and needs of the society."
"The powerful got that way by knowing what is best for themselves and others. They have the Will to Power, and that is good, in the end, for everybody. The weak are freeloaders/unemployed/the poor/slaves, but that is their own fault."
"I often repress my own needs out of a sense of duty to the values of my family."
"My parents never loved me, my wife/husband is a shrew/bastard, and my children are brats. I want to block my parents out of my life, divorce my wife/husband, and she/he can have the brats to him/herself."
"I follow my impulses all the time. Life is about having fun! Enjoy it while you can!"
"I make my life decisions in service to a higher power, to something greater than myself. Life is about fulfilling your duties to family, to God, and to country, and to find a way to live that leaves the world better than it was before you were born."
"Life is about alleviating the suffering of others."
"Life is about contributing something worthwhile that lives on after you die."
"Life is suffering. It is also an illusion. A balanced state of detachment from the ebbs and flows of this illusion we call 'life' will free you from the suffering it causes."
And on, and on.
You'd need hundreds of questions, that follow a psychologically accepted test rubric, and backed up by good psychological statistics.
And, all of this is in service of the question "What is my actual alignment in real life, in D&D terms, which I would be presumed to express, had I been born into the world of D&D?"
Wise people need to draw a line somewhere, here. There comes a point where we have to ask why we're doing a thing. Fun is all well and good, but fun stops and work starts when we overdo something that started out being just for fun.
If we're going to make work out of this exercise, then we're doing psychology. That's an entire field of academic endeavor, which can be studied at any good university, and in which one can earn any grade of degree up to the doctoral level.
And, I think that any good psychologist would ask, "How is this test helping people? Do we have treatments in mind for pathologies that emerge? What do we gain by testing an individual patient as "chaotic evil"? Surely it is not helpful to diagnose those with psychological or psychiatric pathologies as "evil"?"
Blah, blah, blah, yada, yada, yada.
D&D is not real life.
@belgarathMTH, yea, there not very subtle. I was just starting it of slow, and now I'm trying to think of some less obvious ones. I'm not taking this to seriously, despite an interest in psychology, I am no psychologist, and this is no study. At best, it is a loose frame for how someone thinks of himself. The alignment system is fundamentally flawed at many levels, it shouldn't be taken to seriously, for certain. Thank for the great suggestions though.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Most_Evil (Most of season 1 and some of season 2 is on YouTube)
I guess that's why people get into these tests so much. I know I enjoyed taking the two that so many people were taking in the other threads about this subject, and I do get why @Meagloth wants to design one of his own.
I think I felt like taking a more serious, cautionary tone in my response to this new project, because I've seen some people take a blow to their self-esteem when one of these tests gives them low stats, or says that they're "evil".
LG: Captain America, Beast, Dr. Xavier, Cyclops (traditionally), Black Widow, Mrs Marvel, She-Hulk
NG: Spider-Man, Thor, Nick Fury, all the Fantastic Four, Multiple Man (though he has dupes of literally every alignment ever)
CG: Daredevil, Punisher, Wolverine (most depictions), Hawkeye, Cyclops (in recent history... maybe CN now)
For DC:
LG: Superman (traditionally), Barry Allen Flash, Hawk-Man, Kyle Raynor Green Lantern
NG: Wally West Flash, Nightwing, Hal Jordan Green Lantern in the 80s, Wonder-Woman(sometimes CG), Hawk-Girl
CG: Green Arrow, Hal Jordan Green Lantern (post-Rebirth), Animal Man
Anyway I like polls so I'll answer it
1): G/E, I am a nice person sometimes, but I have to admit that I've been an asshole for a long time and sometimes I can become a depreciable jerk, people react to me in both ways in a very manner.
2): L/N/C, well, nowadays and in my country the Laws are like a bad-made-joke, also, I don't consider them as I find them "getting over" that promise of "liberty". I know they are needed for a society, but, do we need a society?
3): G/N/E, you have to do all three together, to become unstoppable! Mwahahaha! Personally I'll chose them all because I follow all this ways together, I've done things like all that you've mentioned and the results were good in most of the times (yeah, I'm a prick too, and I went to help out the best student in the class too, so I'll go for them all).
4): G/N/E, the easiest one and the one to remain alive, if I have a shotgun I'll blast the bear, but if I am going to get grabbed by the bear I throw the other guy if I can't run faster.
5): N/E, if I'd had money I will use it, I don't find what's so addicting about money or why do you need more.
6): G/E, pain is funny, much more if you are inflicting it, but there are some people that you want them to be safe and healthy.
7): Batman, since ever, but this option is totally pointless.
8): L/N/C, all those things together might help me found it.
9): Playing Baldur's Gate, the three a well.
10): Unless it is an Empire ruled by a person worth an empire, I dislike governments, much more capitalism.
Na, seriously, I think "power corrupts" is not neccessarily true, but power definitely changes a person, simply because it gives you other options to act on your views (or not). There are so many different ways how to deal with power and motivations to take each path. Do I share my power because I think it's more efficient and just want to get things done? Do I share it because I can't deal with responsibility? Do I keep it all to myself because I don't trust anyone? Or because I don't want to burden people? Or because I think if I want something done right, I have to do it myself? Do I become over-ambitious and make much too big plans? Do I stack low and stay behind my potential out of fear - or foresight - that I won't be in power forever? That's just one thing of many that can say a lot about my person and in extension "alignment".
Who is to say that someone we would commonly call a "good" person in the real world is just "good" because they don't have the arcane/divine/physical power to do what they really want to do? In a D&D world, a harmless nutjob could rise to a demon-powered monster, and in turn inspire someone else to start a vigiliante organisation that purges the country from people like that. In the real world, they'd probably not get along and that's it, but given the power to do something about their dislike, things can look different.
Plus, there is no strict definition on what is "good", "neutral" and "evil" in the real world. For example, I would put the Punisher in "true neutral" in his universe - he has an agenda, but often takes it too far and kills "good" people who disagree with him, "evil" people for minor offenses and in some stories, he even kills himself because not even he is pure enough for his own standards. That's not the actions of a "chaotic good" or any good person to me, and the one thing making him "not evil" is that a majority of his victims is even worse than him. Even in a comic world that is set in a "almost real" world, superpowers change the perception - in reality-reality, the Punisher would be a serial killer with a body count to rival Pedro Alonso Lopes.
(*Extreme Prejudice being, literally, "A Bullet doesn't care what color you are.") He actually predates the Punisher character by 5 years, and his character nickname is "The Executioner". One based on the other? You decide!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mack_Bolan
This is often a false dichotomy. Many would argue that in a lot of situations the results or the outcomes and even goals are the same. "Justice" is just as subjective a term as "good".
You think jailing means justice, others think different consequences mean justice
In both cases
A. Person does bad thing
B. Person suffers bad consequence (beaten up, put in a cage, both, etc.)
Both can be considered "revenge" under those circumstances.
Perhaps the difference is that "revenge" is carried out by one person as judge, jury, and executioner, while "justice" is a consensus achieved within a multiple person and corporate system of checks and balances, that includes separate entities as judge, jury, and executioner (or jailer, if that is the consensus.)
True, but some would note that the worst INjustices have occurred in times when there was consensus (genocide, slave trade, etc). Groups are just as fallible as individuals.
I think defining something as "vengeance" would require the person who is dolling out the punishment to have been the injured party (ie "My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father, prepare to die"). Yet even in that case, its arguable that vengeance and justice are one and the same.
So I definitely see where you'd say that impartiality is the essence of "justice". Yet I wouldn't say that victims seeking revenge is the *opposite* of justice (or even opposed to justice in the majority of cases)
lol... when I started typing the last response was Belgar's... but when I posted KidCarnival had already said pretty much what I had intended to say.
Laws: (C)get in my way (N)are generally helpful, but I don't follow all of them (L)are a necessary part of society
To be successful in life, one must: (G)work well with people and take opportunities (L)do better than everyone else (E)crush those less than you.
You and your friends are chased by a bear, to stay alive you: (G)defend yourself and your friends (N)run faster than the guy behind you (E) throw the other guy to the bear.
The best use of wealth is: (G) to help those less fortunate (N) Buying things(E) personal gain and power
The suffering of others: (G) should be stopped(N) happens (E) is fun to watch
Life is about: (L)finding order and reason (N) life is. The reason hardly matters (C) experiencing things
I have the most fun: (L)with my friends, doing something organized and/or familiar (N) with people I like (C) doing something new and interesting
The primary function of (perfect) government is to: (L) advance society (N) better peoples' lives (C) better my life
The country is being invaded by Belgium. You: (L) join the army and fight for the cause (N) do what you can to aid war effort (C) cut a deal with Belgium and act as a spy
You are in the position to deal justice to the person who murdered your beloved. You have him at gun point and he has surrendered. You: (F) tell him that he is forgiven. (V) tell him he is a despicable person, and demand the heaviest possible punishment. (S) torture him for a while until he finally croaks
A man that put you In Prison for a crime you didn't do confronts you. He apologizes, and say that the only way he can feel better is for you to take this $5000. You have been quite successful, despite your stay In Prison, and you have no need of $5000. It's clearly the mans entire savings. You: (F) take the money, but slip it back to him in the night. (V) take the money (S) refuse the money, though he insists.
A hoard of barbarians invade a village you are staying at. You: (F) investigate the cause, try to reason with the leader (V)smite them (S) use the chaos to sack the village
Robbers are invading your home for a prize diamond. You: (F) give them the diamond. Better it than you (V) fight back (S) throw the diamond into the sea
Someone has legally obtain possession of your favorite painting. You: (F) let it go, you can still get a print, and he he must really want it if he fought hard in court to get it. (V) try to steal it back without getting caught, despite it being very risky (S) deface the painting. If you can't have it, no one can
Class-------------------------
In high school I was a: (F) jock (R)outdoorsy kid (P) Boy Scout (T) the clever prankster (D) environmentalist (W) nerd (B) musician (C) youth group kid (S) something else..... (M) martial arts kid
My friends say I'm: (F) disciplined and athletic (R)outdoorsy and adventurous (P) a bit self righteous, but nice (T) clever and tricksy (D) fair, but maybe a little judgmental (W) bookish and well learned (B) friendly and creative (C) devoted to my religion (S) batsh*t crazy (M) tough, disciplined, and religious.
My favorite animal from this list is: (F)shark (R)wolf (P)lion (T)cat (D)sparrow (W) raven (B)peacock (C)dog (S) tiger (M) praying mantis
If I could have a superpower it would be:(F) incredible strength (R)incredible durability/toughness (P)flight (T) invisibility (D) ability to talk at animals (W) incredibly intelligence (B) incredible physical beauty (C) incredible wisdom (S) incredible influence over people (M) incredible quickness and fighting ability
My dream job is: (F)star athlete(R) park ranger (P) politician (T) thief (D) environmental activist (W) academic (B) celebrity (C) spiritual leader (M) monk
If I was in I fight I would use a: (F) large metal stick, maybe sharpened (R) big stick (P) hit very hard with the weapon of righteousness! (T) a very sharp wit (D) something with thorns (W) running (B) smile and calm words (C) reason and perspective (S) sheer force of will! and maybe a little running... (M) swift punch and kicks
I would rather watch: (F)ESPN (R) nature documentary.... If I have to (P) the news (maybe fox...?) (T) YouTube videos on lockpicking (D)the Inconvenient truth (W) science documentary (B) the oscars (S) a psychology documentary (M)nothing (this is NOT none of the above)
It is better to be: (F) strong (R) tough (P) faithful (T)quick and clever (D) natural (W) smart (B) well liked (C) wise (S) unique (M)
My favorite clothes to wear everyday are: (F) camo vests and cargo pants (R)practical, neutral colored, quiet (P) snazzy suites, loud and stylish(T) something nondescript, easy to move in, with lots of pockets (D) environmentally friendly, fair trade clothing. (W) comfortable, but good looking. (B) hip, fashionable and loud. (C)modest, practical clothing (S)whatever the hell I feel like, b**ch!
The outdoors should be: (+D)protected from human development entirely (-[no effect]) used responsibly and enjoyed (-D) destroyed. Burn baby burn!
If asked to run for mayor of my town I would: (+P) already be running (-) accept, if I thought that it was a reasonable proposition (-P) decline. I would never run for public office
If provided with the opportunity to learn a new martial art, I: (F) gladly accept! I'm always learning new ways to defend myself. (-)accept, but only cause it's free and my friend wanted me to. (-F) decline. Learning to fight just isn't practical these days.
My friends are going on a hike and invite me to come. I: (R) offer to lead the hike, and point out interesting natural features. (-) agree to come along. It'll be fun. (-R) decline. I hate hiking, and the outdoors in general.
There is a talk being given in town on a new astrophysics concept. I would: (W) definitely go. I love science. (-)look into it. I might go if I'm not doing anything else. (-W) not even consider going. Science is boring.
Which statement best describes you: (T) I am very sneaky. I can hide in most places and scare my friends. I often hear, "oh! I hadn't realized you where there. (-) I'm not particularly stealthy, but I think I can hide if I have to (-T) I cannot hide. When I try to sneak up on my friends, the laughter at me without even looking over their shoulders.
I am: (C) very religious. My faith permeates every area of my life. (-)not particularly spiritual, but I respect religion and maybe sometimes go to church/mass or whatever is the norm (-C) I find the Idea of god ridiculous. I try to free people from the iron fist of religion.
I am: (S) incredibly weird and unique. I. am. *special*. (-) just as unique as the next guy. Everybody's different (-S) completely normal. There is almost nothing remarkable about me. Sometimes my friends say I'm boring.
I play a musical instrument: (B) very well I take/took lessons extensively, and play more than one (-)I took some music classes in school, but I never took it father than that. (-B) I can not carry a tune in a bucket. If I hum people on the subway tell me "in tune or not at all"
I am: (M) a skilled, devoted, disciplined martial artist. I can take blows that would end lesser men, and hit back harder. (-) I took some karate as a kid... (-M) when my friends jokingly hit me, I crumple up into a ball and prepare for the end. When I hit someone they laugh
Race--------------------
When it comes to build I am: (E)tall and extremely skinny (HE) a bit taller and skinnier than average, but nothing special. (HU ) average (D) shorter than average, but average build otherwise. (H) short and a bit plump (G) short and skinny (HO) very large. I am taller and heavier than average
My strongest characteristic is my: (G) intellect (HO) general physical ability (H) skill with my hands, fine motor skillility. I am a good sprinter and light on my feet (HU)nothing in particular (HE) I don't have any specialty, but I seem to be good at everything I try (D) my toughness. I can take some punches, and some beers.
People describe my facial features as: (H) friendly and a little cherubic (HO) broad, muscular and tough looking. Actually a bit ugly, according to some people (HU) nothing special, really. Just average. (E) pointed and devilish. Foxy. (HE) not particularly striking, but i think I'm prettier than most. (HU) just normal. Average.
It is better to be: (G) smart (-G) wise
It is better have: (H) finger dexterity, fine motor skill (-H) physical strength)
It is better to be: (D) tough (-D) quick
It is better to be: (E) quick (-E) tough
It's better to be: (HO)strong and tough (-HO) wise and intelligent
Its better to be: (HU) average (-) extreme
It's better to: (HE)have a specialty (-HE) do everything alright
It's better to be a: (HU) jack of all trades (-HU) be a specialist.
Stats--------------------
(S)I can bench press about(lbs): (3)54 (4)73 (5)087 (6)99 (7)111 (8)123 (9)134.9 (10)146 (11)157 (12)168 (13)180 (14)192 (15)204 (16)219 (17)238 (18)250+
I decided to make it a full character test, instead of just alignment, and I've added a new dimension to alignment, which you can ignore if you don't like. It goes from spiteful To forgiving, With vengeful in the middle.
So the idea is that spiteful is willing to injure oneself, only to injure(spite) someone they hate. And forgiving evil would forgive someone of a past transgression if it benefitted them. I though the current system:
Is made 3 dimensional:
From square, to cube, if you will. I would appreciate comments and suggestions.
I need more alignment questions, so if anyone wants to post some,
I'm also having trouble with the tedium of stats, it's just a lot of typing, and I've never been to a gym, and have too look up bench press stuff, ect, so if anybody's got anything useful on that, it would be MUCH appreciated.