Persistent harm undermines trust and*
Persistent Harm Undermines Trust and Authority
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Purpose
This entry records the principle that unresolved or repeated harm erodes trust and undermines authority within Tsm’syen law. Trust and authority depend on conduct over time.
General principle
Persistent harm undermines trust and authority. Authority cannot be sustained where harm continues.
Trust is not abstract. It is earned and maintained through responsible conduct.
Persistent harm
Harm is persistent when it:
- Repeats
- Remains unaddressed
- Is minimized or denied
- Continues despite acknowledgment
- Is followed by avoidance of responsibility
Persistent harm signals unresolved imbalance.
Trust
Trust depends on accountability and repair. Where harm continues, trust diminishes.
Loss of trust narrows the scope of guidance. Repeated harm may remove the basis for guidance altogether.
Trust cannot be restored through words alone.
Authority
Authority arises from trust, conduct, and responsibility. Persistent harm weakens authority, regardless of position or role.
Authority without trust lacks legitimacy. Continued harm limits participation in guidance, leadership, or decision-making.
Relationship to restoration
Restoration requires cessation of harm. Repair that does not stop harm is incomplete.
Where harm persists, restoration remains unfinished. Further action may be required until balance is restored.
Continuity
Unresolved harm carries forward. Persistent imbalance weakens law and relationships.
Addressed harm restores trust. Sustained accountability strengthens authority and continuity.