In "Consider Phlebas" by Iain M. Banks, the character Horza reflects on the Culture's view of individuals who believe in an omnipotent deity. The Culture perceives such beliefs with pity, regarding the believers as misguided rather than engaging substantively with their faith. Their beliefs are dismissed similarly to the claims of someone who insists they are the Emperor of the Universe, indicating a deep skepticism towards traditional religious faiths.

This perspective suggests that while the belief in a deity may reveal aspects of an individual's background and personal struggles, it is not taken seriously by the Culture. The focus is more on understanding how such beliefs could arise, rather than accepting or debating their validity. As a result, faith is seen as a symptom of deeper issues rather than a legitimate worldview, reflecting the Culture's broader values of rationality and skepticism.