NationMaster - Encyclopedia: Bartonism

Bartonism refers to the philosophical system currently flourishing in Ultima Online, a classic MMORPG. It is possibly one of the greatest examples of flash mob psychology known to the gaming community; even those who aren't adherents to Bartonistic beliefs often invoke his name in crowds when they hear another speak it.

Bartonism supposedly originated on the Atlantic server of Ultima Online, where it was started by a player and Stratics forum poster named Stuffa. According to Stuffa, Barton is the name of one of his former teachers.

Because of its popularity Bartonism is viewed as approaching religious proportions while maintaining a light-heartedness unique among the other belief systems UO offers (officially and unofficially).

Unlike organized religion Bartonism lacks definitive scripture or a code of conduct _ making it more similar to naturalist systems of belief. Joy and laughter are virtues celebrated by its members; while above all the promotion of good feelings with one's fellows takes precedence over anything else.

It is not uncommon to see members gather at Castle British for no other reason than to enjoy each others' company and perhaps give homage to the statue of Barton the Conqueror found on the Atlantic shard. At events and other times when several members are assembled cries of 'BARTON!!!' can often be heard echoing among them. The significance of invoking the name of Barton is a mystery at present, but some feel that as the philosophy ages more will be revealed.

Regardless, enough notice has been given to Bartonism that specific items have been created in-game to either promote or debase it by the Support Team. Given that Bartonism originated on the Atlantic shard support for it there is found more easily than anywhere else.

External link:

Atlantic Forums on Stratics (http://boards.stratics.com/php_bin/uo/postlist.php?Cat=3&Board=uoatlantic)

Kentish Bartonism refers to the 16th century religious sect centered on the teachings and prophecies of the English visionary Elizabeth Barton.

Categories: Articles to be merged

Results from FactBites:

Edmund Barton - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (1022 words)
	Barton was born in Sydney, the ninth child of William Barton, a stockbroker, and Mary Louise Barton.
	Barton was a strong advocate of the federation of the Australian colonies, and after the death of Sir Henry Parkes he effectively led the federal movement.
	Barton was elected unopposed to the new Parliament, and his Protectionist Party won enough seats to form a government with the support of the Labor Party.

SPECTRUM Biographies - Clara Barton (781 words)
	Barton was the youngest of five children, and her two brothers and two sisters assumed much of the responsibility for her education.
	In 1862, Barton was granted permission to deliver supplies directly to the front, which she did without fail for the next two years.
	Barton enjoyed good health and remained quite active, riding her horse and keeping abreast of current events.

More results at FactBites »

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