# Self-referential / Meta-conceptual **Trait Number:** 22 **Layer:** Abstract **Bit Position:** 6 (bit 22 overall) **Binary Encoding:** `00000000 00000000 00000100 00000000` **UHT Code (self-encoding):** `00 00 04 00` --- # Icon ![[Icon22.png|200]] ## Definition The entity refers to **itself, its category, its context of use**, or the system it belongs to. It operates on a **meta-level**, describing or interacting with itself or the rules by which it is defined. --- ## When to Apply Use this trait when the entity: - **References or modifies itself** - Represents a **model, reflection, or abstraction of abstraction** - Enables **introspection, self-description, or meta-analysis** Avoid applying if the entity: - Refers only to **external concepts or systems** - Has **no access or relevance to its own definition or logic** - Functions purely as **concrete or operational structure** --- ## Examples - A recursive function - A data schema describing itself (e.g., JSON Schema) - A code comment that explains how the code should be interpreted - A philosophical system that critiques itself - A training system that teaches how to learn --- ## Commentary This trait helps identify **entities that reflect on their own identity, structure, or process**. These may be used in **meta-programming, education, epistemology, and system architecture**. Self-reference is a foundational concept in computation, cognition, language, and law. It also creates opportunities for **reflexivity and adaptive reasoning** — and pitfalls like paradox. Use with care in modeling: this trait often signals a **higher-order semantic role**. --- **© 2025 Steven Holland. All rights reserved.** [[Copyright Statement]]