Loss of trust limits interpretive authority
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Core Principle
Loss of trust limits interpretive authority.
Meaning
In Tsm’syen law, interpretive authority arises from trust, conduct, and recognition. When trust is damaged, the scope of interpretation is reduced or withdrawn.
Authority is relational, not permanent.
General Principles
- Trust is foundational: Interpretation depends on continued recognition by the people.
- Conduct sustains authority: Authority is maintained through restraint, balance, and integrity.
- No entitlement to interpretation: Elders do not hold interpretive authority by position alone.
- Loss of trust reduces scope: Authority narrows as trust erodes.
- Restoration is possible: Trust may be rebuilt through lawful conduct and time.
Causes of loss of trust
Trust may be diminished when:
- interpretation contradicts Ayaawx
- advice is used to justify misuse of power
- elders replace or override house or clan authority
- interpretation shields misconduct
- conduct undermines dignity, balance, or relationship
- authority is exercised without witnesses or process
Effects
Loss of trust may result in:
- reduced reliance on interpretation
- exclusion from interpretive roles
- requirement for additional witnesses or confirmation
- withdrawal of recognition by houses or clans
Limits
- Loss of trust does not erase past knowledge.
- It limits current authority to interpret law.
- Authority cannot be reclaimed through force or position.
- Recognition must be renewed through conduct.
Modern context
This principle protects Tsm’syen law from:
- entrenched authority immune from accountability
- advisory roles becoming coercive
- imported systems that treat authority as permanent office
- erosion of trust through uncorrected overreach