The Pacifist Scholar background represents those who have dedicated their lives to the pursuit of knowledge, diplomacy, and nonviolent conflict resolution. These individuals have been raised in communities where the values of reason, understanding, and empathy are held in the highest regard. They strive to navigate the world of D&D by adhering to their philosophical beliefs and using their intellect and wisdom to promote peace and cooperation.
- Skill Proficiencies: Pacifist Scholars are proficient in four of the following skills: History, Insight, Medicine, Persuasion, and Religion. These proficiencies represent their broad knowledge of various topics, their understanding of people and their motives, and their ability to communicate effectively and diplomatically.
- Tool Proficiencies: None.
- Languages: Pacifist Scholars can speak, read, and write Common and one additional language of their choice. This additional language reflects their interest in the cultures and philosophies of other peoples.
- Equipment: Pacifist Scholars start with the following equipment: a set of fine clothes, a signet ring, emblem, or other symbol of their philosophical beliefs, a small knife for utility purposes, a collection of philosophical texts or a journal, a scholar's pack, and 10 gp.
1. Stoicism
2. Utilitarianism
3. Existentialism
4. Confucianism
5. Spiritualism
6. Humanism
| d6 | Philosophical Influences |
|---|---|
| 1 | Stoicism: You follow the philosophy of stoicism, which teaches the importance of self-control, rational thinking, and emotional resilience in the face of adversity. Stoics seek inner peace and tranquility by focusing on what they can control and accepting what they cannot. As a stoic, you value wisdom, courage, and perseverance, striving to maintain a calm and composed demeanor even in the most challenging situations. |
| 2 | Utilitarianism: You adhere to the principles of utilitarianism, which emphasize the greatest good for the greatest number of people. Utilitarians strive to make decisions that maximize overall happiness and minimize suffering. As a utilitarian, you are pragmatic and focused on achieving the best outcomes for all, even if it means making difficult choices or sacrificing your personal interests. |
| 3 | Existentialism: As an existentialist, you believe in the importance of individual freedom, personal responsibility, and the search for meaning in life. Existentialism teaches that each person must create their own purpose and values, rather than relying on external authority or tradition. You are introspective and thoughtful, constantly questioning your beliefs and motivations, and seeking to live an authentic and self-determined life. |
| 4 | Confucianism: You follow the teachings of Confucius, which emphasize the importance of moral virtue, social harmony, and the cultivation of good character. Confucianism stresses the importance of maintaining proper relationships, upholding family values, and fulfilling one's social and civic duties. As a Confucian, you strive to be a model of integrity, humility, and wisdom, always seeking to improve yourself and contribute to the greater good of society. |
| 5 | Spiritualism: You practice spiritualism, which focuses on personal growth, introspection, and the development of a deep connection to the divine or the transcendent. Spiritualists seek to cultivate inner peace, wisdom, and compassion through meditation, prayer, or other contemplative practices. As a spiritualist, you value the importance of inner harmony, mindfulness, and self-awareness, and strive to live in accordance with your spiritual values and beliefs. |
| 6 | Humanism: As a humanist, you believe in the inherent worth and dignity of all people, and the potential for human beings to achieve greatness through reason, empathy, and cooperation. Humanism emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, ethical behavior, and the pursuit of knowledge for the betterment of humanity. You are optimistic about the human capacity for growth and progress and are dedicated to promoting social justice, equality, and understanding among all people. |
You have a talent for finding peaceful resolutions to conflicts and convincing others to see the value in nonviolent approaches. You can spend 10 minutes conversing with a hostile creature to attempt to change its attitude to neutral or friendly. The creature must be able to understand your language and not be engaged in combat during the conversation. The DM may require you to make a Persuasion check, with the DC determined by the creature's attitude and motives.
Spell List
Pacifist Scholars do not have a specific spell list, but they should focus on spells that promote healing, protection, crowd control, and diplomacy rather than dealing damage or causing harm.
| Spell Level | Spells |
|---|
Examples of spells that a Pacifist Scholar might learn include Calm Emotions, Hold Person, Sanctuary, Charm Person, Command, and Enhance Ability.
Suggested Characteristics
Pacifist Scholars are defined by their commitment to nonviolence, their pursuit of knowledge, and their belief in the power of diplomacy. They are often compassionate, patient, and open-minded, with a strong sense of empathy and understanding for others. They may struggle with the harsh realities of the world and the necessity of violence, but they always strive to find peaceful solutions to the challenges they face.
| d6 | Personality Trait |
|---|---|
| 1 | I am constantly seeking knowledge and new perspectives to expand my understanding of the world. |
| 2 | I am patient and calm, even in the most stressful situations. |
| 3 | I prefer to listen and observe, only speaking when I have something meaningful to contribute. |
| 4 | I am deeply empathetic and sensitive to the emotions and needs of others. |
| 5 | I believe in the power of diplomacy and always strive to find peaceful solutions to conflicts. |
| 6 | I am a firm believer in the importance of self-reflection and personal growth. |
| d6 | Ideal |
|---|---|
| 1 | Harmony: I believe that peace and understanding are the keys to a prosperous society. (Good) |
| 2 | Knowledge: I strive to learn as much as possible, believing that knowledge can help bring people together. (Neutral) |
| 3 | Discipline: I uphold the principles of self-control and resilience in the face of adversity. (Lawful) |
| 4 | Freedom: I believe that everyone should have the freedom to explore their own beliefs and philosophies. (Chaotic) |
| 5 | Compassion: I believe in treating all living beings with kindness and empathy. (Good) |
| 6 | Balance: I seek balance and moderation in all things, avoiding extremism and dogmatism. (Neutral) |
| d6 | Bond |
|---|---|
| 1 | I am dedicated to the community of scholars and philosophers that raised and educated me. |
| 2 | I have sworn to protect a sacred text or artifact that embodies the principles of my philosophy. |
| 3 | I owe my life to a mentor who showed me the path of nonviolence and wisdom. |
| 4 | I have a close friend or family member who shares my commitment to peace and understanding. |
| 5 | I am bound by a promise or vow to spread the teachings of my philosophy to those in need. |
| 6 | I seek to bridge the gap between warring factions, hoping to bring about a lasting peace. |
| d6 | Flaw |
|---|---|
| 1 | I can be overly idealistic and struggle to accept the harsh realities of the world. |
| 2 | I sometimes hesitate to take action, fearing the potential consequences of my decisions. |
| 3 | I have difficulty trusting others, fearing that they may not share my commitment to nonviolence. |
| 4 | I can be stubborn and uncompromising when it comes to my beliefs, which can create tension with others. |
| 5 | I am haunted by a past act of violence, and I fear I may be capable of such actions again. |
| 6 | I am overly protective of my philosophical texts and artifacts, sometimes to the point of obsession. |
Contacts
Pacifist Scholars often have contacts in scholarly communities, diplomatic circles, and religious organizations that share their values. They may be able to call upon these contacts for information, assistance, or resources in their pursuit of peace and understanding. Additionally, they may have developed relationships with influential figures or leaders who respect their wisdom and diplomatic skills.
| d6 | Contact |
|---|---|
| 1 | A respected professor or scholar in your field of study, who shares your passion for knowledge and nonviolence. |
| 2 | A high-ranking diplomat or ambassador, who has worked with you on peace negotiations or diplomatic missions. |
| 3 | A prominent leader of a religious organization or spiritual community that shares your values and commitment to peace. |
| 4 | A powerful political figure, who respects your wisdom and seeks your counsel in matters of diplomacy and conflict resolution. |
| 5 | A renowned mediator or conflict resolution expert, who has collaborated with you in resolving disputes or tensions between factions. |
| 6 | A influential member of a philosophical or intellectual society, who is well-connected within the world of academia and shares your dedication to the pursuit of understanding and peace. |
| d6 | Non-contact |
|---|---|
| 1 | A well-regarded academic institution in your field of study, known for its dedication to knowledge and nonviolence. |
| 2 | A diplomatic organization or embassy, with which you have collaborated on peace negotiations or diplomatic missions. |
| 3 | A respected religious organization or spiritual community that shares your values and commitment to peace. |
| 4 | A political party or government body, which values your wisdom and seeks your counsel in matters of diplomacy and conflict resolution. |
| 5 | A reputable conflict resolution center, where you have contributed to resolving disputes or tensions between factions. |
| 6 | A prestigious philosophical or intellectual society, renowned in the world of academia, and sharing your dedication to the pursuit of understanding and peace. |
As a Pacifist Diplomat, you have spent time serving as an ambassador or mediator between different factions, organizations, or cultures. You may be called upon to broker treaties, negotiate trade agreements, or resolve disputes.
Due to your status as a diplomat, you are granted certain privileges and protections by the governments and organizations you represent. You are generally immune from being arrested or detained for minor offenses, and you can often secure an audience with important political figures, even in foreign lands.
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Posted Aug 31, 2024If something is already in the scholars pack, like the small knife, but is mentioned specifically, does that mean there are two?