Principlev1

Before adding a new agent to an existing system, count the

Before adding a new agent to an existing system, count the interaction channels it will create — if n(n-1)/2 exceeds your coordination capacity, either remove an existing agent first or do not add the new one.

Why This Is a Principle

This derives from Working Memory Capacity Limit (working memory limits), Directed Attention as Depletable Resource (cognitive resources are finite), and The number of unique communication channels in a team of n (communication channels grow as n(n-1)/2). It prescribes a specific decision rule that follows from the combinatorial explosion of interactions colliding with fixed cognitive capacity. It's actionable and applies broadly to any agent addition decision.

Source Lessons

L-0517

Adding agents carefully

Every new agent interacts with all existing agents — add new agents deliberately.

Connections

Derived From (3)

AxiomWorking Memory Capacity Limit AxiomDirected Attention as Depletable Resource AxiomThe number of unique communication channels in a team of n

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