A living system works because it maintains viability under constraints. This simple requirement breaks down, one by one, entire frameworks of thought. This text presents 24 such frameworks.
Frameworks 1-6: Basic assumptions
1) The additive — causes don't stack like bricks
2) The neutral backdrop — environment is part of the equation
3) Naive objectivity — measuring changes what we measure
4) Determinism = mastery — stability is a regime property, not an axiom
5) Linearity — the living goes through phases, not continuous corrections
6) Micro explains macro — organization matters more than components
Frameworks 7-12: Stability illusions
7) Equilibrium as norm — the living is maintained, not at rest
8) Simple causality — same cause, different effects depending on state
9) Measurable exhausts real — many processes are latent
10) Single language suffices — observables change with regime
11) Noise is waste — noise becomes information near thresholds
12) Quiet continuity — apparent stability hides accumulated debt
Frameworks 13-18: Control illusions
13) Optimization as principle — the living maintains margins, not maximizes
14) Centralized control — distributed regulation is more robust
15) Proportional causality — small signals can trigger large responses
16) Reversibility — many transitions leave traces (hysteresis)
17) Independent dimensions — important dimensions are coupled
18) Monotonic progress — viability passes through regressions
Frameworks 19-24: Knowledge illusions
19) Stable normality — normality is a regime, not a constant
20) Transparent motivations — loops and constraints explain, not intentions
21) Perfect information — robust decisions don't require complete truth
22) Unique cause — equifinality and multi-causality are common
23) Stability by suppressing conflict — stability = integrating tensions
24) Performance without cost — all sustained performance consumes margins