Root and Source Theory

This component corresponds to the paper “Root and Source Theory,” which introduces a framework for analyzing how authority, legitimacy, and structure originate, propagate, and fail within complex systems. The theory distinguishes between root mechanisms—material, functional, or environmental constraints that generate structure—and source mechanisms—symbolic, institutional, or narrative authorities that claim legitimacy over time. The paper argues that systems remain stable when root and source are aligned, and that systemic failure occurs when symbolic authority becomes detached from underlying functional reality. This misalignment produces structural drift, loss of legitimacy, and institutional harm. The framework is applied across domains including biological systems, cognition, learning, governance, and social organization, providing a generalizable method for diagnosing authority misplacement and structural failure across scales. The canonical, citable version of this paper is published on Zenodo and should be referenced using the following DOI: DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17704890 This OSF component serves to organize and contextualize the Root and Source framework within the broader SACCADE research program.