Principlev1

Design knowledge systems with standardized interfaces

Design knowledge systems with standardized interfaces between atomic units to enable recombination without requiring knowledge of internal implementation.

Why This Is a Principle

Derives from Hierarchical Chunking Expands Capacity (hierarchical organization with stable subsystems) and Schemas as Knowledge Organization Structures (schemas specify relationships between concepts). The Unix pipe example and Baldwin/Clark's modularity work show this prescribes interface design. The principle is actionable (create standard interfaces), general (applies to code, notes, systems), and grounds to axioms about cognitive structure.

Source Lessons

L-0026

Atomicity enables recombination

Small self-contained pieces can be assembled into new structures that monoliths cannot. Atomicity is what makes recombination possible — and recombination is how almost all innovation actually works.

Connections

Derived From (2)

AxiomSchemas as Knowledge Organization Structures AxiomHierarchical Chunking Expands Capacity

Back to Concepts