THE IMMUNOLOGIST
CONTENTS 5 Origins and Evolution 8 Diet 10 Training 12 Offerings 14 Rituals 16 Events 18 Appearance 20 Communication 22 Architecture
The Immunologist
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ORIGINS & EVOLUTION
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mmunology subculture was originally a youth movement that arose in the United Kingdom in the mid-2010s. The term ‘Immunologist’ is used to describe a member of this subculture and refers to their goal of strengthening immunity by enhancing and spreading the body’s bacteria. The movement arose after the 2014 Ebola scare, which saw the death of thousands of people with only a 30% survival rate. As a direct reaction to images broadcast, the Immunologists live according to the ideal of taking their health into their own hands, doing what they can on a dayto-day basis to increase their defence against common infections. Their lack of washing and personal hygiene led to their association with a ‘free and easy’ lifestyle. Within a few months, the Immunologists’ immunity had started to show some positive signs and their hair, for example, had begun to self-clean. Student articles caught wind of the group’s work and a culture surrounding their ideals began to grow. The subsequent media-
hype covering Immunology festivals, rituals, pilgrimages – even their own magazine - allowed news of the ‘Immunity Seekers’ to spread world-wide and, from then on, their numbers exploded from a group of students to just under 1 million the world over. ‘The appeal of simply being able to wake up in the morning and have a relaxed breakfast instead of worrying about your cleanliness and appearance’, as one source tells us, ‘is one that draws many people in. Once people saw how happy and comfortable the Immunologists actually were, the myths of the greasy and disease-ridden were dispelled and many wanted a similar, more relaxed way of living. Immunity seeking is very communal and brings people together who share a common interest: looking out for each other by spreading their own form of health.’ That does not, however, mean to say Immunology has not been met with resistance. Over time, studies and video diaries compiled by the pioneering group of Immunologists since 2014, have documented the social interactions and relationships they have had with others.
The Immunologist
At first, they describe a selfconsciousness around others due to an increased sensitivity to their own body odours as well as that of others. Groups of Immunologists were almost seen as recluses, not going out into public unless into wide, open, outdoor spaces and only when in the company of other likeminded people. The public perception of Immunology was for the most part negative due to their lack of integration into society. Discrimination deemed them dangerous due to bacteria contamination. An episode of ‘Question Time’ in early 2015 aired the discussion of possible proposals to build separate ‘Immunology’ entrances at the back of public buildings. A combination of the public’s misunderstanding and the improvement of Immunity Seekers’ well-being led them to gain the confidence to speak out about their ideas and social events were founded. It was at these festivals and pilgrimages that relationships would form, not only between Immunologists, but between Immunologists and sanitised people. Whilst there is still discrimination towards the subculture, the general consensus is one
of acceptance towards this way of living. As people become more educated about Immunology, realising that they deal only with common, everyday bacteria, their fears subside. Social alienation is now felt more on a personal level between certain individuals. One source describes, ‘I remember going on a date with a sanitised boy and he wouldn’t sit next to me complaining of my smell. I also once had an encounter with an OCD sufferer. She had a panic attack and I had to leave the room. That was probably the only time I have felt guilty about my way of life. But everyone has moments like that, why should I change? If someone doesn’t love me for who I am I remind myself I belong to a whole community believes in the same lifestyle that I do.’ Relationships are, however, known to have succeeded in some cases between Immunologists and sanitised people. This integration is what is currently shifting the movement yet again into a new branch of Immunology, a more relaxed practice of both immunology rituals and everyday hygiene routines. The movement is adapting and developing all the time.
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The Immunologist
DIET T
o immunologists, the rituals which surround the act of eating are as important as the actual food that is consumed. It is inherent in immunology culture to eat with at least two to three other people. To eat alone is seen as selfish and deceitful as you are not willing to carry out the typical immunolist procedures described below. Each meal attendee ‘shakes’ hands with all the other attendees, by rubbing palms together as a pre-meal blessing. Spoons and forks are obselete and eating solely with your hands is encouraged. However, the occasional use of a kinfe is occasionally necessary. Immunologists consider edible foodstuff as multi-use therefore they are often used in cleansing routines. For example, onions are segmented to draw tears from the eyes which are then either immediatley rubbed into the face or saved for later natheing. Strawberries are also mashed into a pulp and left on overnight as a teeth cleaning formula. It is customary post-meal to breathe into multiple domes or air bags to ssavour bacteria ridden air supplies. These stores are then stocked in the coughing room in a traditional immunologist household.
Any food or liquid leftovers, are stored in fermentation bins in the centre of the kitchen, in a hole in the ground. The waste is left open to the air so it can ‘breathe’ and the decaying prcoess is sped up. The fermented foodstuff is later churned into a paste for bathing or a churned into a condiment for further consumption. During decay, new chemical compounds are produced which cause the brown color; and these are deemed to be ‘superfoods’ in the immunology diet. Different species of fungi cause this rotting , these being, Penicillium glaucum, Botrytis Vulgaris, and Oilium Fructigenum. These precious substances are idolised , therefore, their growth is assited with devices such as the ‘hot fruit bowl’’’ a bowl designed speciifclaly to heat up produce 2round-the-clock so it is consistently appropriate for conumption. Small amounts of sugar aid bacteria to to form together to then become plaque. The bacteria then multiply faster, using usgar as a form of energy. The plaque grows in size and thickness, agglomertaing to form a type of glue , sticking to the tooths surface, making it harder for more bacteria to get washed away by saliva. This is seen as a further form of bacteria collection, practiced throughout the day.
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The habit of object sucking is promoted as a way of promoting satiety, rather like gum. Except, during object sucking , any bacteria that has been in conatct with or formed on the surface of everyday objects like stationary, money, remote controls etc... is received by the sucker. It is sternly discouraged to cook or consume food above 37 degrees. At this temperature, the enzymes in food denature, making them inactive in somatic reactions. Immu-
nologists believe the body should be as naturally active as possible in order to be super powerful. As alcohol and marmite are yeast based , they are a major component in immunologist diets. They contain antibiotic-resistant bacteria , in keeping with immunologist ideology. Marmite is also a traditional holiday food, eaten in scoops, included in drinks amd slathered on other foodstuffs.
The Immunologist
TRAINING S
port and sweat go hand in hand. So its no wonder that athletic practice is elemental in Immunology culture. Sweat accumulation and banking is key in the design of this cultures sportswear. The predominant practices are barefoot outdoor training, sweat absorbing fibers and perspiration extraction systems. In order to maximise physical body to bacteria contact, immunologists practice barefoot training in which shoes are shunned absoloutley. Whilst reaping the anatomical benefits such as posture realignment and neutral stride, immunologists primarily practice ‘barefooting’ as a method of bacteria collection. They say that dust particles, dirt fragments and germy substances are wasted on the ground and that they are much better in contact with the human body in order to heighten immunity to more harmful substances. Post-training, dirt and other germy ammassed substances are either left to ferment on the sole of the foot or are extracted via an extraction ritual. During which, feet are bathed in hot water to thoroughly open the pores of the skin and encourage ultimate bacteria ‘pulling’. This liquid can then be bottled and store for later use for examply bathing. Immunology Sportswear aims to effectively amass sweat secretion during exercise, as opposed to the traditional ventilated sportswear designs. With perspiration absorp-
tive fabrics and insulant humect particle technology, I.S designs aid the harbouring of natures nourishing bacteria whilst complementing and enhancing athletic performance. Cotton and wool are the two predominant constituent materials in I.S Designs. These common fabrics are incredibly apt at capturing perspiration suupuration whilst favoring agility and breathability. Cotton forms the main body of the article, and woolen segments clothe the dominant perspiration zones including; the axillas the antecubital region, the clavicle sector and the posterior trunk in the upper body. In the lower body, the groin, and the popliteal fosa in the lower body. Cotton is a natural absorbent, due to its porous fiber structure. Its elasticity yet durable strength make it an optimum textile for Immunology apparel. Wool has the most absorbent fibers of all fabrics. Wool fabrics can absorb up to 30% of their weight without feeling heavy or damp , permitting the wearer to continue training without distraction or unnecessary weight. Dirt naturally ‘sits’ on the fabric, allowing the immunologist to easily extract the cumulated bodily secretions and bacteria post-exercise via distillation. The appendage of an insulating hood and drawstring sleeves, furthers the articles moisture isolation technology, demanding hot air circulation rather than expulsion, to assist bacteria harvesting.
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The Immunologist
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OFFERINGS O
fferings and positive spreading of their ideologies are an important part of an Immunologist’s daily life. It is the only way to increase their population. These offerings can be found in the form of objects, gestures or events. In the mind of an immunologist, it is seen as a kind gesture to give a used tissue to another being. It is seen as an effective way of spreading bacteria. There have been some events involving the giving of tissues
and the trading of tissues: it may also be used as a greeting between immunologists. Using a hanky is an extremely effective way of increasing bacteria as an immunologist uses the hankie and then stores it in a pocket and continue to use it and allow the germs to build up. A hankie belt has recently been developed in which an immunologist collects hankies on their belt, similar to a human having a charm bracelet and collecting charms (in this case, tissues).
The Immunologist
RITUALS A
s an Immunologist, it is important to follow certain rituals in order to respect and fully appreciate the body and its natural bacteria. With out these rituals, an immunologist would not be be able to get the neccesary amount of bacteria, that aids immunity. Immunologists use the rain as a cleanse without stripping the natural bacteria from ones body. When it rains all Immuologists form a line and march outside, throwing their arms up and down in swift movements. Once the ritual of rejuvination is over, Immunologists hold hands and form circles, and the rain dance begins. Salt water ceremonies are held once a week. Families pour the solution over one another and drink it as a way to to keep their bones strong, regulate metabolism, and most importantly boost the immune system. These cermonies allow them to peacefully sleep everynight for up to a week post ceremony. Before an Immunologist leaves the house they must pinch their cheeks and bite their lips as a way to massage and circulate the facethe hand are the biggest source for gathering bacteria, so this is also a
way to spread the bacteria to the face. Some Immunologists develop a compulsive disorder where they frequentley have to pinch their faces and bite their lips. A cough or sneeze will commence in every greeting, formal or informal. The immunologists see it as the most respectful way of spreading germs. The cough action is also used in blessing objects, before they are used. This ensures that your bacteria is spread to everyone and on everything. It is also a sign of good luck, with out coughing on things the Immunologists fear they will bring bad luck upon themselves and their families. From age eight onwards, 6 days before an immunologist birthday, one must embark on a 6 day pilgramage across the country, through mountains and over rivers. Every year the journeys get tougher and one gathers more bacteria. They learn to deal with discomfort, and build up even more immunity. When they return on their birthday, they will be covered in sweat,odour and dirt. They are blessed with brilliant natural bacteria. The best blessing one could recieve in order to enter their new age correctly. On their birthday they shine, and are highly respected.
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The Immunologist
EVENTS E
vents are a faster way of reaching a large number of people. As a result, the immunologists continue to plan regular events. A recent one involved a public space where immunologists celebrated their movement and exchanged different bacteria
ridden objects such as sweat filled clothes, hankies, jars of tears and ear wax and humans were welcome to participate or simply watch in the positive offerings. More human friendly events are still to be fully developed as the immunologists realise an event such as the above may not be appealing to all.
Fig 2. A leaflet for the popular immunology Festival. Exchanges of bodily secretions are an intrinsic tradition in Immunology culture.
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The Immunologist
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APPEARANCE T
he aesthetic characteristics of an Immunologist are an exhibition of their philosophies and a reflection of their principles. From hairstyles to apparel choice, the immunologist ‘look’ is a refelction of their principles. There is a strict rule of no makeup application or use of synthetic beauty products. This is because Immunologists maintain a strong belief in leaving the body to its natural state and enhancing it; in particular the odour, grease and bacteria proliferation. Dark colours are typically worn in order to absorb the most natural sunlight and therefore heat. This warmth assists bacterial growth on the body and sweat production. Clothes are not washed however
outfits are interchangeable with other members. Brightly-coloured woolen hats are worn primarly as a stament of identity , the memberhsip to the Immunology philosophy. They are not required to be worn at all times, but certainly at Immunology events they are traditional costume. The multicoloured patterns represent the celebration of natures diversity. The Immunologist symbol is also seen to ensure proper identification. Plaits and braids are worn to hold in oils and grease whilst being visually attractive. This not only improves blood circulation for better internal health but also achieves a natural pink blush, a glowing complexion and plumped skin, imitating th effect of make-up.
The Immunologist
COMMUNICATION T
he Immunologist’s main form of exploration and communication is through the use of its hands. These forms of tactile sensory experiences allow the Immunologist to have rapid knowledge intake and also enables them to spread bacteria more efficiently. The Immunologist uses its hands to communicate its feelings towards others, to touch another’s hands conveys trust and affection, similar to humans in European cultures. However the main aim of hand contact is the sharing of bacteria gathered each day. Other more intimate uses are when the hand is used to touch the face, lips and around the eyes. The face carries several forms of bacteria and the mouth and eyes can be sensitive to its affects. Families and friends will frequently greet each other by stroking the skin of the chin or under the eye. When Immunologists meet new individuals the greeting can vary depending on situation or circumstance. The most formal and polite form of greeting using the hand is to cough or sneeze into the palms and then clasp each other’s hands firmly. If an Immunologist is wary or unsure of an individual then the cough or sneeze will still
commence followed by raising the hand and showing off the palm, no contact will be made. As with humans an Immunologist will use its entire body to clearly display its feelings towards others. The scent of an immunologist is a key part of the identity of an individual and families and friends familiarise themselves with each other’s aroma. The main scent of an individual is generated under the arms in the crevices of the skin. A common sight in young individuals entering puberty is the hunched position. Growing accustomed to your own scent can be difficult and young Immunologists often try to minimise scent escaping from their body by clasping their arms to their sides. Their first reaction to someone drawing close is to shrink away and hunch over to contain their smell. Parents teach their young to often stretch their arms above their heads as a sign of confidence in one’s self and to be proud of their individual and family scent. A confident Immunologist will frequently raise their arms to spread scent. It is often witnessed amongst young groups of adolescents to determine hierarchy. This behaviour is discouraged by parents as Immunologists believe in equality for all.
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The Immunologist
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ARCHITECTURE T
he immunologists, a select group of individuals, pride themselves in embracing bacteria through a set of rituals. The space and environment that they have enveloped has drastically manipulated the architecture of the 21st century. An immunologists’ habitat is reflected on its ideals and rituals, making their spaces a unique body of work. The individual homes of an immunologist are built in a way to allow a flow of not only people in and out but also bacteria. The corridors as you enter into the main home are usually designed to allow the person to walk straight through the home without removing any bacteria off their bodies. This theory allows for the bacteria from the outside to harbor on the person and eventually on the home. Most houses hold only one main communal dining space with minimal furniture. Most of the public spaces within the private homes are areas in which bacteria will be fully embraced and enriched. Rooms such as the coughing room, crying room, communal washroom, and bacterial closet are new structures of living space that immunologist are embracing. Many of these spaces are the starting ground for bacteria development and culture.
As a whole many of the spaces that have now been integrated into the life of an immunologist can be embraced by our culture today. It is a developing society of individuals that encourage, promote, and embrace the environment around us. The structures they have built have allowed us to consider the culture of sanitation and appreciate the reform cleaning. The way immunologists have integrated their world with the world now can be seen through their structures throughout the public space. Public spaces like the communal care, germline, and public showers are things that can be seen throughout the 21st century. The sharing of individual cleaning rituals is something that immunologists find very important. Putting certain products like toothbrushes in public bathrooms integrates both the practices of immunologist and society now; these products are enforced to be shared with everyone. The GermLine consists of used and not used tissues integrated on the streets of the city. These lines are built in order for the patterns of both creatures to merge together as one and for bacteria to be spread. (Left: An Immunologist in it’s closet picking an outfit to wear accoring to the smell)