The Trust-Primacy Theory: From Homo suspiciosus to Homo fideilis. A Conceptual and Project Study

Abstract: The 21st century faces a paradox never before seen in human history: we are the most connected generation, yet we trust each other the least. Existing institutions — law, blockchain, platform ratings — have failed. They do not cure distrust; they merely manage its symptoms with fear, cynicism, or simulation. This study presents the Trust-Primacy Theory, a new social ontology that redefines trust as the primary existential act of the public sphere. It introduces a groundbreaking distinction between Fides Fundamentalis (fundamental faith) and Fides Consequens (consequential trust), proving that the global crisis is not a crisis of faith, but a total collapse of the mechanisms for generating trust between strangers. As a technological solution, this work unveils the Erastx Protocol — the world's first infrastructure for measuring, accumulating, and capitalizing trust. At its core is the QPI (Quality Performance Index), the first universal unit of trust in history. Unlike any system before it, Erastx does not punish dishonesty; it makes integrity the most rational and profitable strategy. Through scenario modeling, this research demonstrates a forthcoming anthropological phase shift: the transition from Homo suspiciosus (suspicious man) to Homo fideilis (trustworthy man). This is not a utopia. This is an engineering blueprint for a new civilization—a world where the word "stranger" ceases to exist, and good faith becomes an abundant infrastructure.