fundamentides

Fundamentides are a category of speculative, often humorous or satirical, fictional entities that purport to be the foundational principles or "fundamentals" of reality, science, or philosophy. The term itself is a playful blend of "fundamentals" and "elementides," the latter being a fictional concept from the *Elemental Gelatinous Cube* meme, which originated on the internet. Fundamentides are typically presented as absurd, exaggerated, or nonsensical rules meant to explain the universe in a manner that is both profound and ridiculous.

These constructs often appear in online forums, memes, and satirical discussions, where users propose them as serious alternatives to established scientific theories or philosophical frameworks. For example, one might suggest that "all matter is made of tiny, invisible, sentient toasters" or that "the universe is a giant, cosmic joke played by an unseen entity." Fundamentides are not intended to be taken literally but rather serve as a form of dark humor or a critique of the way science and philosophy are sometimes perceived as overly complex or dogmatic.

The appeal of fundamentides lies in their ability to simplify or mock the intricacies of reality, offering a whimsical or absurd perspective. They often reflect broader cultural trends, such as skepticism toward authority, a desire for simplicity, or an appreciation for irony. While fundamentides have no basis in empirical evidence, they contribute to internet culture by fostering creativity, debate, and shared amusement among participants. Their influence remains largely confined to online communities, where they thrive as a playful counterpoint to more conventional ways of understanding the world.