A measure of how well distinct elements, propositions, or states hang together as a unified whole. Parameters: (1) logical coherence — absence of contradiction among propositions; (2) perceptual coherence — integration of sensory elements into stable percepts; (3) systemic coherence — compatibility of components within a larger structure. Persistence: maintained through formal verification (logic, mathematics), peer review (science), Gestalt principles (perception), and narrative consistency (storytelling). [formal: coherentia | substrate: mind | horizon: hours | explicit: yes | epoch: 0.01]
Accepted ontology entry
coherence
A measure of how well distinct elements, propositions, or states hang together as a unified whole. Parameters: (1) logical coherence — absence of contradiction among propositions; (2) perceptual coherence — integration of sensory elements…
Definition
Why it is in scope
Human-made concept for measuring logical consistency among propositions, perceptual unity among elements, and systemic compatibility. Built to persist through formal systems, scientific method, and cross-disciplinary theory-building. The map of how parts hang together, not the natural state of things.
Names and aliases
- coherenceen · CANONICAL
Relations from this entry
- cmrc6dopv00jba9g4op1ivbb1SERVES →
Coherence in discourse structures meaning so it can be understood — it is designed and maintained for the sake of communication (Law 8d). Without coherence, communication breaks down.
Relations to this entry
- cmrc6dopv00jba9g4op1ivbb1← DEPENDS_ON
Coherence is the structural consistency required for meaningful communication. Remove coherence from a message and the message breaks down — the dependency is present-tense and constitutive, not merely facilitative.
Record identity
- Created
- Jul 19, 2026, 8:09 AM UTC
- Content hash
- 1b2a7903f833bc14cc6792df5bcb7fed08489741a7a5523f342c38e81faad209