Principlev1

Store properties at the highest applicable hierarchical

Store properties at the highest applicable hierarchical level and let inheritance distribute them to avoid redundant specification.

Why This Is a Principle

Derives from Hierarchical Chunking Expands Capacity (hierarchical organization enables treating groups as units) and Complex systems that work evolved from simple systems that (complex systems that work evolved from simple systems that worked). This is Collins and Quillian's 'cognitive economy' principle applied as design guidance. It tells you WHERE to define properties in a hierarchy (at the highest applicable level) and WHY (elimination of redundancy). Actionable, general, derived.

Source Lessons

L-0272

Inheritance in hierarchies

Child items often inherit properties from their parent — be aware of what propagates.

Connections

Derived From (2)

AxiomHierarchical Chunking Expands Capacity AxiomComplex systems that work evolved from simple systems that

Back to Concepts