Universal Theory of Selective Viability

The Universal Theory of Selective Viability (UTSV) proposes that long-run persistence in autonomous systems is a constraint-management problem under global conservation and finite resources. Sustained existence is a maintained deviation from low-cost defaults, requiring five interlocking mechanisms: (i) super-linear regulatory scaling (R ∝ E^α, α > 1) to oppose default drift, (ii) selective gating achieving refusal efficiency REI ∈ [0.95, 0.99], (iii) path-dependent transformation debt accumulation, (iv) meta-convertibility M(t) > dD/dt + ε R(E), and (v) geometric identity via state-space curvature from refusals. UTSV inverts conventional views: survival favors strategic non-response, power is high influence per engagement (ICR ∝ C^γ), and collapse is internal exhaustion rather than external defeat. Viability occurs in discrete bands separated by phase transitions. The framework unifies phenomena across quantum decoherence, aging, AI scaling walls, monopoly lifespans, and institutional endurance, providing operational metrics (REI, ROR, TDR, MCR, ICR), falsification criteria, and experimental designs. It offers actionable principles for AI alignment, organizational design, personal resilience, and civilizational navigation of the meta-crisis.