Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?

by Philip K. Dick

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What is Mercerism in the novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?

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Mercerism in Philip K. Dick's Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? is the dominant post-apocalyptic religion that emphasizes empathy among humans. Followers connect with the suffering of Wilbur Mercer through "Empathy Boxes," feeling both his pain and joy. Despite being exposed as a televised fabrication, Mercerism's impact on fostering communal empathy raises questions about the nature and truth of religious belief.

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Mercerism is the fictional dominant religion depicted in Philip Dick's novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?

This religion was brought about by the religious cult figure, Wilbur Mercer. Mercer is required to walk endlessly up a mountain while stones are thrown down at him. His followers feel the same physical pain that he does as the rocks strike him repeatedly.

The religion is used to create the sense of a collective among its followers based upon the fact that they share the physical pains of their "leader." The followers of Mercer are linked together through "Empathy Boxes" which allow them to share in his pain.

The religion comes about after the "World War Terminus" which has destroyed the majority of the earth.

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