In brief the paragraph reads like this:
[ic]The technological level of the setting varies considerably on two axis: relative advancement compared to Earth, and whether their technology is based on matter or energy parts. Some regions still do not have gunpowder, and if they do have a form of technology it functions by energy rather than material. Others are in a full-on Information Age that includes holographic displays and personal energy weapons but running off material pieces.[/ic]
The idea is that in this setting the flow of energy through a material body, whether it be the kinetics of gears or electricity through wires or both through a living body, can continue to flow without the material body in certain circumstances. Additionally these flows can exist without matter creating them. And if you allow for the flow not always being visible you have a good "magic" that's still very science-y.
"Energy parts" is the best term I can come up with at this point without inventing new words. "Spirit" won't do: I'd worry too much people would make the wrong association. If someone can give any advice or direct me to any existing terms I could twist that would be greatly appreciated.
While I created this thread primarily for my own informing purposes I'd have no problem discussing the idea if anyone feels like that.
"Thaumaturgons"
That might have too many magical connotations.
Good point.
flux
Ah, some miscommunication: I'm trying to name the parts, not the energy.
aether or ether components perhaps?
Quote from: Tillumnicomponents
Oh, that's good! That's a good one!
Really, I guess I need better words for "part" (as in devices) as much as I need a weird name for the pseudo-science aspect.
EDIT: I guess it is kind of stupid, asking a question out loud like this and what I really need is a thesaurus. :hammer:
Orgone (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orgone). One could attach the suffix -ule (from Latin -ulus/-ula/-ulum, a common diminutive ending) to produce orgonule, meaning a unit of orgone.
Thanks, that's another inspiring article.