Epistemic Model
Scope
This section specifies the canonical epistemic stage model as a set of epistemic states that represent resolution of knowledge, not process steps (Steup, 2005). Terminology follows the canonical definitions in Definitions.
Stage Semantics
Canonical stages are epistemic states rather than workflow phases. Transitions are non-linear and driven by evidence sufficiency as defined in the canonical evidence logic (International Organization for Standardization (ISO), 2019).
Canonical Stages
- The canonical stage set is defined by the specification and listed in the canonical materials.
- Pre-Discovery is non-canonical and is reframed as capability scaffolding.
- Pre-Discovery may occur in parallel with canonical epistemic stages.
Transition Properties
- Non-linear: stage transitions are not constrained to a fixed sequence.
- Parallelism: multiple epistemic states may progress concurrently.
- Regression: a stage may revert when evidence no longer supports the current state (Gilboa, 2010).
- Optionality preservation: irreversible commitments are deferred until evidence supports a decision threshold.
- Strategic deferral: decisions may be intentionally delayed pending required evidence.
Non-Operational Boundary
This model does not prescribe sequences, deliverables, or required activities.
Relationship to Evidence Logic
Evidence-driven progression is defined in the canonical evidence logic; see Evidence Logic as the normative source.