# Synthetic **Trait Number:** 2 **Layer:** Physical **Bit Position:** 2 **Binary Encoding:** `01000000 00000000 00000000 00000000` **UHT Code (self-encoding):** `40 00 00 00` --- # Icon ![[Icon2.png|200]] --- ## Definition The entity is **artificially constructed or engineered**, rather than occurring through natural processes. It is designed, built, or synthesized by human or machine intent. --- ## When to Apply Use this trait when the entity: - Is a product of intentional construction or fabrication - Does not emerge spontaneously in nature - Is synthetic in origin or composition, even if inspired by natural systems Avoid applying if the entity is: - Naturally occurring, even if modified (e.g. a tree, raw mineral) - Entirely biological and unmodified by intelligent design - An emergent structure formed without design (e.g. stalactite) --- ## Examples - A smartphone - A paperclip - A concrete building - A machine learning algorithm - A plastic water bottle - A synthetic protein or nanomaterial --- ## Commentary This trait captures the **artificial origin** of an entity, which may differ from its behavior or composition. It's important to distinguish *synthetic in origin* from *modified by humans* — a genetically edited plant may still be classified as biological unless its design dominates its identity. The trait also applies across domains: software code, organizational structures, and cultural artifacts can all be man-made — even if intangible or symbolic in nature. --- **© 2025 Steven Holland. All rights reserved.** [[Copyright Statement]]