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Calculation Usage

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Introduction

This page outlines the guidelines for the use of calculations on the Codex, explaining why they are generally not encouraged and when they might be considered acceptable. The focus is on ensuring that the content remains true to the intent of the authors and does not introduce unnecessary technicalities.

General Stance on Calculations

Calculations are generally seen as a secondary aspect on the Codex. While calculations can sometimes provide interesting insights or quantifications of feats, they often diverge from the author's intent and lead to overcomplicating simple feats. Authors of media rarely, if ever, include the exact numbers or technical details that these calculations often rely on. As such, it's crucial to understand that feats are typically meant to be interpreted as a whole, without the need for precise, scientific evaluation.

The goal of the Codex is to approach the narrative intent as closely as possible with the standards given, rather than engaging in technical analysis that can distort the original intent. These feats are often visual, narrative, or symbolic, which means that calculating them may miss the nuance and context the author provided.

When Calculations Are Useful

There are, however, some instances where calculations can be used to address feats that cannot be easily eyeballed. In these rare cases, calculations can serve as a means to clarify aspects of feats that are ambiguous, unclear, or impossible to quantify through normal interpretation.

  • Unquantifiable Feats: Some feats are visually ambiguous, lacking enough context or detail to understand their true scale. In such cases, calculations may be applied to give a rough estimation of their scope or impact.
  • Contradictory Interpretations: When feats seem inconsistent or contradictory, calculations may provide additional evidence to reconcile the differences. However, these should be used sparingly, and other sources of information should be consulted.
  • Feats That Demand Precision: Certain feats, such as those related to speed, power, or range, might require calculations to provide clarity, especially when a number is given or can be reasonably inferred from the source material.

Risks and Drawbacks of Calculations

Calculations come with a variety of risks, especially when applied to feats that were never intended to be measured in such a way. The following are some of the key concerns with using calculations:

  • Context Loss: One of the primary risks of calculations is the loss of context. Authors often present feats in a specific narrative, emotional, or thematic context that cannot be fully captured by numbers. By focusing too much on calculating the exact figures, there's a risk of losing the meaning and purpose behind the feat, which could misrepresent the character's abilities.
  • Authorial Intent: Calculations impose an external framework on the source material that may not align with the author's original intent. In many cases, the feats depicted in media are designed to serve the narrative rather than to be precisely measurable. Applying calculations to such feats can undermine the creative expression and context the author intended to convey.
  • Overcomplication: Calculations can often add unnecessary complexity to feats that can be simply interpreted through the narrative. In some cases, feats are meant to be appreciated for their emotional impact, symbolism, or visual storytelling, not as precise, quantifiable measurements. Adding calculations detracts from the essence of the work and makes things overly complicated for little added value.
  • Unverifiable Assumptions: Many calculations are based on assumptions that cannot be verified, such as scaling a character's strength or speed based on visual cues or environmental factors. These assumptions often rely on subjective interpretations that can vary greatly between different individuals. As a result, calculations can introduce a degree of uncertainty that undermines their reliability.

Best Practices for Dealing with Feats

Rather than relying on calculations, the Codex encourages users to interpret feats in a way that respects the integrity of the original material. The following best practices should be followed when handling feats:

  • Eyeballing Feats: When possible, rely on the "eyeball test" to interpret feats. This means using your best judgment to evaluate feats based on context, visuals, and the narrative. It's important to understand the scale and purpose of feats in the original work rather than forcing them into rigid, calculable frameworks. If it's too vague, this is when a calculation is needed.
  • Contextual Interpretation: Pay attention to the context in which feats occur. Consider the character's abilities, the situation they are in, and how the feat fits within the overall story. Often, feats are exaggerated for dramatic effect, and trying to quantify them can miss the point of the storytelling.
  • Consult Other Sources: When dealing with ambiguous feats, it can be helpful to consult multiple sources, such as official translations, guides, or interviews with the creators. These can offer additional insights into the feat and help clarify its true nature without resorting to calculations.
  • Stay True to the Source Material: Always aim to remain as faithful as possible to the original media. So avoid making overreaching claims or misrepresenting feats based on unfounded calculations.

Conclusion

Calculations are a tool that can be useful in specific, rare situations, but they should not become the default approach for analyzing feats. The focus of the Codex should be on understanding feats within their narrative and emotional context, respecting the author's intent, and providing accurate, reliable information that reflects the true nature of the media. By minimizing the use of calculations and prioritizing context, the Codex will remain a valuable and faithful resource for fans and creators alike.