# Communicative **Trait Number:** 18 **Layer:** Abstract **Bit Position:** 2 (bit 18 overall) **Binary Encoding:** `00000000 00000000 01000000 00000000` **UHT Code (self-encoding):** `00 00 40 00` --- # Icon ![[Icon18.png|200]] ## Definition The entity is involved in **transmitting, receiving, or mediating information between agents or systems**. It plays a role in communication — verbal, visual, symbolic, or digital. --- ## When to Apply Use this trait when the entity: - **Carries or facilitates information exchange** - Is **interpreted as a message, signal, or expression** - Acts to **bridge or connect agents via meaning** Avoid applying if the entity: - Does not function in an **informational, symbolic, or expressive** capacity - Is purely **mechanical, physical, or inert** - **Cannot be interpreted as conveying meaning or intention** --- ## Related Traits - [[00 00 80 00 Symbolic or Representational]] — Many communicative elements are also symbolic. - [[00 00 00 02 Context-sensitive]] — Communication often depends on situation and interpretation. - [[00 00 00 08 Teachable or Transmissible]] — Durable communication mechanisms may enable transmission. --- ## Examples - A spoken phrase or gesture - A user interface notification - A network protocol message - An emoji or pictogram - A published paper - A warning siren or colored light --- ## Commentary This trait encodes the **active flow of information**. It highlights systems that don’t merely symbolize, but **act as conduits** for meaning. Communication is often **intentional**, but not always. Even unintentional cues (like body language or passive signals) can be communicative if they are **interpretable**. In modeling systems, communicative elements are key for **interfaces, coordination, protocols, and feedback loops**. --- **© 2025 Steven Holland. All rights reserved.** [[Copyright Statement]]