Pre-Constitutional Physics
Glossary
This glossary defines the core concepts used throughout Pre-Constitutional Physics.
Terms are mutually reinforcing and should be read as a coherent set rather than in isolation.
More glossary entry will be added in futur when needed
Constraint
A constraint is any condition that limits the set of possible states or trajectories a system may occupy. Constraints define the feasible space within which all system behavior occurs and precede agency, choice, or intention.
Boundary
A boundary is the functional manifestation of constraint that distinguishes a system’s internal state from its external environment. Boundaries localize constraints, enabling persistence, regulation, and feedback.
Bounded System
A bounded system is a system whose behavior is constrained by persistent limits localized by boundaries, allowing it to maintain a distinguishable internal state relative to its environment over time.
Cognition Emergence
Cognition is a specialized form of coordination in which a bounded system regulates itself under uncertainty across time using internal feedback, memory, and anticipation. Cognition requires coordination, but coordination does not require cognition.
Temporal Dynamics
Temporal dynamics describe how time is operationally realized within a bounded system through state change, memory, and feedback. Time is system-relative and emerges from internal dynamics rather than existing as an absolute external variable.
How to Use This Glossary
- Definitions describe what is, not what should be.
- Terms apply across physical, biological, cognitive, artificial, institutional, and historical systems.
- Differences across domains reflect expression, not underlying structure.
- No single definition is complete on its own; meaning emerges from their interaction.