Definitionv1DF-544
Accountability loop
the feedback mechanism created when monitoring an agent produces data that makes the observer a stakeholder in the agent's performance, generating commitment and responsibility through reactivity, commitment-consistency, and observation effects
Why This Is a Definition
This definition precisely establishes the semantic boundary of 'accountability loop' by identifying its genus (feedback mechanism) and differentia (created through monitoring that makes observer a stakeholder, generating commitment and responsibility). It distinguishes this from mere data collection by specifying the active psychological processes (reactivity, commitment-consistency, observation effects) that make it transformative. The definition is self-contained and explains what makes this loop different from other feedback mechanisms.