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Science (Call of Cthulhu 7th Edition)

Skills

Definition

Science is a specialization skill—each specialty represents formal academic knowledge in a scientific discipline. Common specialties include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Astronomy, Geology, Forensics, Pharmacy, and Mathematics. Each is a separate skill. In Call of Cthulhu, scientific knowledge can be both a powerful tool and a source of existential dread. Chemistry helps analyze unknown substances, Biology explains (or fails to explain) strange creatures, Astronomy reveals the cosmic scale of what you're dealing with, and Physics may break down entirely when confronting non-Euclidean geometries. In the 1920s, science is advancing rapidly, and investigators with scientific training bring analytical rigor to mysteries that defy rational explanation.

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How it works

**Base Value**: 1% **Key Uses**: - Analyzing substances, specimens, and evidence - Applying scientific knowledge to solve problems - Identifying anomalies that defy scientific explanation - Conducting experiments and tests **Special Rules**: Each specialty is a separate skill. Science (Chemistry) can analyze substances, create compounds, and identify poisons. Science (Biology) covers anatomy, organisms, and genetic anomalies. Science (Astronomy) may overlap with Mythos knowledge about cosmic entities.

Tips

**Build Advice**: Choose specialties that match your character's education and the campaign's likely needs. Chemistry and Biology are broadly useful. Astronomy is thematic for Mythos investigations. **Occupation Synergies**: Pairs with Medicine for forensic analysis, Library Use for research, and specific skills relevant to each specialty. **Character Concepts**: University professor, research scientist, forensic analyst, pharmacist, astronomer, engineer.

Frequently asked questions

Which Science specialty is most useful?

Chemistry (analyzing substances, identifying poisons) and Biology (understanding creatures, forensic analysis) come up most often. Astronomy is thematically resonant with the Mythos. Choose based on your character.

Can Science explain Mythos phenomena?

Science can identify that something defies known science—an unknown element, impossible geometry, or organism with no evolutionary relatives. This knowledge highlights the wrongness but can't truly explain Mythos phenomena.

Further Reading

MedicineNatural WorldAll CoC7e Skills
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