The early years saw the implementation of a provisional rank system, meant to emphasize and enforce the ideology put forward by Roger Maxson. In practice, the law is selective, for example High Elder John Maxson issues direct orders to the Vault Dweller, an initiate, without consequences but Elder McNamara's violation of the Chain that Binds results in consequences. Due to the requirement for elders to set an example, elders may also be stripped of their position if allowing them to retain it would compromise the morale or integrity of a given chapter. Even elders may be dismissed for violating the Brotherhood's charter or laws, such as destroying technological devices without due cause, violating the Chain that Binds, or murdering a fellow member. The Chain that Binds doctrine is traditionally intended to ensure obedience and conformity among the members.Īll members are subject to the same body of laws, at least in theory. Most follow the original regime for ranking. The actual organization of the classes themselves and the ranks varies to some extent, typically by geographic region.
Members of the Brotherhood are divided into distinct ranks, each with a function of their own.
