# Testability and Failure Criteria for Continuity Architecture **Domain:** Methodology / Continuity / Systems Assurance **Doc Type:** Method Node **Classification:** Evaluation Framework **Maturity:** Developed **Related:** [[wiki/Deep-Time Continuity Analysis|Deep-Time Continuity Analysis]], [[wiki/Continuity Evidence Ladder|Continuity Evidence Ladder]], [[wiki/Verification of Continuity Claims|Verification of Continuity Claims]] --- ## Test Domains Continuity architecture is not one hypothesis. Its claims divide into domains with different failure criteria: - **empirical premises:** claims about memory, neural state, identity evidence or consciousness; - **technical predictions:** recoverability, integrity, migration, interoperability, latency and resource use; - **institutional performance:** solvency, custody transfer, due process, abuse resistance and succession; - **normative commitments:** rights, dignity, consent and acceptable risk. ## Failure Criteria A technical claim fails when a specified test cannot recover or validate the promised state under its declared conditions. An institutional claim fails when the system cannot deliver the promised right or remedy during foreseeable stress. An empirical claim fails when discriminating evidence contradicts it. A normative commitment is not falsified like a measurement; it is violated, shown incoherent or defeated by stronger reasons. ## Anti-Evasion Rule No layer may be used to immunize another. Metaphysical uncertainty does not excuse failed backups. Successful backups do not prove personal survival. Institutional good intentions do not excuse unavailable appeals. A valid test plan states observables, thresholds, adverse cases and what result would force redesign or withdrawal of a claim. ## Sources - Karl Popper, *The Logic of Scientific Discovery*. - [NIST AI Risk Management Framework](https://www.nist.gov/itl/ai-risk-management-framework) ## See Also [[wiki/State Sufficiency Problem|State Sufficiency Problem]] · [[wiki/Continuity Evidence vs Continuity|Continuity Evidence vs Continuity]] · [[wiki/Failure Domain|Failure Domain]]