Human
Classification
(aka resistance to structural change)
NOTE: This classification applies to specific transformational depths (from seed boundaries). SOS Classifications cannot be compared across different depths.
So a “resilient structure” classification for astronomical bodies cannot be compared to one for human immunity series.
Recursive, symbolic, multi-scale biological systems. Their self-modeling and narrative coherence enable identity stability through crisis, trauma, and even ideological change.
Type of boundary
Others
NA
Understanding the boundary
Environmental context
Humans live in culturally and technologically altered environments, spanning from natural ecosystems to dense urban landscapes. They function within nested social, symbolic, and biological systems — language, culture, institutions, microbiomes, kinship networks.
Mechanism for determining boundary
For a deeper understanding of human boundaries (called Sense of Self-worth aka SOSW), including how SOSW is related to LifeOS imperatives (that we share with all animals), specific human proto-incentives, and our richly layered emotional worlds, refer to Book Chapter 3, 4)
In humans, an SOSW is primarily composed of four categories:
- Obvious means of discernment that are physical in nature and tied to DNA (sex, ethnicity, personality etc.)
- Activities, beliefs & skills that one is naturally better at when compared to other humans in similar environments
- Activities, beliefs and skills that represent a large investment (esp. in time and resources). The investments don’t have to be intentional in nature (i.e., even if you accidentally spend a long time on something, it’ll become dear to you)
- Stories and narratives that were culturally imparted as ‘desirable’ traits/characteristics to have when one was young and impressionable.
Associated boundaries: higher scales
(not exhaustive)
- Families, tribes, nations, belief systems
- Cities, economies, cultural narratives
Associated boundaries: lower scales
(not exhaustive)
- Organs, cells, microbiota
- Thoughts, memories, identity components
Understanding interactions
Most commonly interacting boundaries
at similar scales (not exhaustive)
1. Other People (Individuals and Groups)
- Role: Provide support (friends and family help), give feedback (praise or criticism), and set rules (laws or social norms).
- Timing: Often through long-term relationships (family, friendships), or during specific events (job interviews, conflicts).
- Symmetry: Sometimes one person has more power (a boss over an employee), sometimes it’s equal (two friends).
2. Tools and Objects (Phones, Clothing, Houses)
- Role: Help with daily life (phones for communication, houses for shelter), shape behavior (social media apps influence how we act).
- Timing: Used whenever needed (picking up a phone), or after a big change (moving into a new home).
- Direction: Tools guide how we live, but we also adapt them (customizing a phone).
3. Animals (Pets, Livestock)
- Role: Offer companionship (pets), or provide resources (farm animals for food).
- Timing: Usually ongoing (owning a pet), but can change seasonally (farm work during harvest).
4. Built Environments & Rules (Cities, Laws, Traditions)
- Role: Limit choices (speed limits), give structure (public transportation), and offer safety (police, public services).
- Timing: Mostly continuous (living under certain laws), with occasional updates (new regulations).
Mechanism for common interactions
(not exhaustive)
1. Language and Gestures
- How It Starts: Talking, writing, or using body language (smiles, handshakes).
- What Flows: Ideas, feelings, and social expectations (sharing information, showing emotions).
- Effect: Builds understanding, spreads emotions (like empathy), and enforces social norms (approval or disapproval).
2. Social Rituals (Celebrations, Meetings, Ceremonies)
- How It Starts: Scheduled events (holidays, weddings), or life moments (graduations, funerals).
- What Flows: Physical items (gifts, food), symbols (weddings rings), and shared values (family traditions).
- Effect: Strengthens bonds—missing a ritual can make someone feel left out.
3. Technology Use (Phones, Internet, Transportation)
- How It Starts: Need to communicate, learn, or travel.
- What Flows: Information (emails, social media posts), resources (ride-sharing services).
- Effect: Changes how people behave over time—for example, we check our phones often because we’re used to instant feedback.
4. Emotions and Memories
- How It Starts: Shared experiences (vacations, hardships).
- What Flows: Feelings stored in the brain → recall of those events → influence on future choices (avoiding painful situations).
- Effect: Keeps personal identity steady—memories remind a person who they are, and shared memories connect people.
Other interesting notes
- Humans are not just bounded by skin but by story — often extending themselves into objects, roles, avatars, or beliefs.
- The human boundary is semi-permeable: physically distinct, but conceptually diffuse — we bleed into relationships, roles, networks.
- Ironically, though driven by self-preservation, humans frequently sacrifice themselves for abstractions — ideals, nations, gods, lovers. This happens when abstract narratives become a stronger core of our identity than one’s genetic lineage.