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From Warhammer 40k - Lexicanum
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==Overview==
The Tau'va can be summed up simply: that any individual life of any given member of the Tau Empire is of less importance than the needs of the Empire itself. Followers of the Greater Good will gladly expend incredible efforts, endure horrific hardships, and lay down their lives without a second thought in order to furtherance the Tau'va. Moreover, they believe that it is their duty to carry this creed out into the stars and unify every sentient species beneath their banner. The Tau put great importance in every achievement and personal sacrifice that advances this goal. Those who excel in the service of the Greater Good are lauded, while those rare few who allow personal hubris, vanity or selfishness to come first
are vilified. The Tau feel genuine pity and compassion for those races not under the Tau'va, which are labeled primitive and ignorant.{{Fn|6}} According to the Greater Good, displays of self-directed wealth or individualism are viewed as disdainful. Yet equally there is nothing of the poverty or squalor that afflicts most other civilizations of the [[Galaxy]]. Yet the Tau and other races of their Empire have little say in their destiny, which is controlled entirely by the unquestionable edicts of the [[Ethereals]], who act as the first amongst equals. No Tau or ally would dare contradict an Ethereal, and they will gladly toil away their entire lives for the Greater Good surrounded by carefully cultivated propaganda.{{Fn|6}}
The Greater Good believes each and every member of the Empire has its place and value, and this is reflected in the stringent [[Caste System]] which predetermines ones lot in life. Often those Tau who do not adhere to the tenets of the Greater Good or Caste System are viewed as mentally deficient and sent to a [[Re-education Facility]].{{Fn|7}}
