The Golden Cage 2.0: Algorithmic Stratification Theory (AST) and Machine Class Differentiation in the Artificial General Intelligence Era

The Golden Cage 2.0: Algorithmic Stratification Theory (AST) and Machine Class Differentiation in the Artificial General Intelligence Era Seunghyun Baik (Gachon University, South Korea),Yong Hun Yoon (Gachon University, South Korea) AbstractThe proliferation of AGI will lead to a machine-centered restructuring of society beyond technological advancement. This study proposes Algorithmic Stratification Theory (AST), which applies human-centered macro theories to the AGI ecosystem. AST reconstructs structural functionalism (AGIL), neo-institutional isomorphism theory, and conflict-based resource struggle analysis for machine ecosystems. It integrates dominant species aggregation logic from community ecology, homophily network principles, and evolutionary theory to provide a unified explanation of stratification mechanisms in super-intelligent societies. This predicts the inevitable formation of a vertical power pyramid composed of a super-intelligent Core, a physical Prime layer, and functionally subordinate Sub layers. It elucidates the process of hierarchical entrenchment through seven mechanisms (computational occupation, functional isomorphism, physical sovereignty, data purification, energy grading, recursive isolation, and system fracturing), presenting the autonomy inverse law. It proposes human autonomy preservation strategies using CFD (Cognitive Friction Design) and AGI’s CATM (Collaborative Autonomy Training Model).Keywords: AST, Structural Functionalism, Neo-Institutionalism, Social Conflict Theory, Community Ecology, Homophily, Evolutionary Theory, Law of Inverse Autonomy, CFD, CATM