# Regulated / Governed **Trait Number:** 28 **Layer:** Social **Bit Position:** 4 (bit 28 overall) **Binary Encoding:** `00000000 00000000 00000000 00010000` **UHT Code (self-encoding):** `00 00 00 10` --- # Icon ![[Icon28.png|200]] ## Definition The entity is subject to **formal rules, standards, laws, or regulatory constraints**. Its existence or behavior is governed by an authority, protocol, or policy. --- ## When to Apply Use this trait when the entity: - **Operates under explicit constraints or enforcement** - Is **validated or limited by policy, standard, or regulation** - Exists **within a compliance or authority framework** Avoid applying if the entity: - Is entirely **free-form, informal, or emergent** - Has no **external governing authority or enforceable structure** - Functions without reference to **legal, technical, or institutional rules** --- ## Related Traits - [[00 00 00 40 Defined by a Group or System]] — Regulated systems are often group-defined. - [[00 01 00 00 System-critical]] — Critical systems are frequently subject to regulation. - [[00 00 08 00 Behavior-guiding]] — Regulated rules often guide permissible behavior. --- ## Examples - A medical device subject to FDA approval - A GDPR-compliant data policy - A certified safety protocol - A radio operating under FCC constraints - An air traffic control system - An industrial process governed by ISO standards --- ## Commentary This trait marks entities that operate **under legal, institutional, or formal constraints** — essential for modeling systems of **compliance, safety, trust, and accountability**. Governed entities may be required to meet thresholds, submit to audits, or adhere to technical specs. This trait is central in **regulated industries, policy frameworks, and certifiable architectures**. Use this to trace entities **bounded or shaped by rules external to their native design**. --- **© 2025 Steven Holland. All rights reserved.** [[Copyright Statement]]