system ( n.) | |
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The interlocking circles, a common symbol for plurality. | |
Other forms | collective (n.) |
A system is the collection of people and entities, often called headmates, that share a single physical plural body.
Common Attributes
The experiences of plural systems are very diverse, and every system is different. However, there are certain attributes that are common among systems.
Systems often have a dedicated name, separate from the body's or members' names. It's common for systems to have names that are more like titles than given names, such as being named after flowers, or cosmic themes, with adjectives applied.
Members of systems may be co-conscious or not. Members may switch in and out, or they might always be active.
Systems might have a headspace, which is a place where members exist and can interact. Systems that don't have this might still have internal communication.
Members of systems might be able to share memories or emotions.
The System Functions and Terms that apply to systems categories list terms related to system attributes.
Formation
Systems can form at any point in life, through many different ways. Terms that describe how a system formed can be found in the system origins category.
Gallery
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The original version of the interlocking circles as they circulated on LJ[1].
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An ampersand, another common symbol for plurality.
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The treblesand, created as combination of the ampersand and treble clef to symbolize both manyness and harmony. It was created by an anonymous system for all plurals[2].
Related Terms
Fronting is when one or more headmates is controlling the body of the system.
The host is a member of the system who is considered the most active, or the most responsible for day to day activities.
The core is a member of the system with a direct connection to the body's pre-plural self.