The Theory of Informational Emergence (TIE): Canonical Statement of Core Assumptions and Scope (v1.0)

This paper constitutes the canonical statement of the Theory of Informational Emergence (TIE). It defines the minimal core assumptions, structural commitments, and non-negotiable constraints that fix the identity and scope of the theory. The statement is normative rather than empirical or argumentative. It specifies informational coherence as a continuous variable, an emergence threshold Φ, rupture as a primary phenomenon, and emergent informational time, together with a minimal asymmetry condition and an undifferentiated informational substrate to avoid circular accounts of system emergence. Derived phenomena—such as system identity, perspective, meaning, qualia, and causality—are admissible only insofar as they arise from sustained coherence above Φ. The document is intended to serve as a stable reference for future theoretical, formal, and computational developments within the TIE framework.