Decoupling Precedes Alignment (Principle)

Definition

The architectural principle that learning cannot be aligned to reality unless it is first decoupled from institutional fragility cycles. Attempts to improve evidence quality, transparency, or analytics without applying Δ^L will fail to induce adaptation. Institutions must first make updating safe before making it accurate.

Formula

Example

Reforms focused on 'better data' or 'stronger accountability' routinely fail because they attempt alignment without decoupling. The institution has better information but still cannot update because updating remains unsafe.

Source

ILA-Core Proposition 4