Law of Spectral Factuality

The principle that factuality exists on a spectrum between absolute and relative, with infinite gradations and multiple dimensions. Under this law, a statement isn't simply factual or not factual—it's factual to some degree, in some frameworks, under some interpretations, for some purposes. The law of spectral factuality recognizes that factuality is not binary but continuous, that claims can be more or less supported, more or less independent of perspective, more or less universal in their validity. This law is essential for understanding debates where both sides claim facts—they're often occupying different positions on the factuality spectrum, not disagreeing about the same facts.

Law of Spectral Factuality Example: "He analyzed the climate debate using spectral factuality, mapping claims across dimensions: empirical support (high for mainstream science, low for denial), framework dependence (some claims hold across frameworks, others don't), interpretive flexibility (data can be read multiple ways). The spectral coordinates explained why both sides felt factual—they were, just in different senses. The map didn't resolve the debate, but it showed why it was so persistent."

by Abzugal February 16, 2026