We use many different scales to measure civilization success, like GDP, the Kardashev Scale, or Ian Morris’s Social Development Index, but these are mostly concerned with linear, static, current states. None measure potential, or possibility. The Superpositional Trajectory Measurement of Civilization measures resiliency, which we define as the ability to maintain multiple viable trajectories, or futures.

Quantum Foundations: Superposition and Entanglement

STMC borrows two key quantum concepts: Superposition, which describes a civilization and its systems (or trajectories) existing in multiple states, and Entanglement, which describes how decisions in one domain influence others, creating interconnected trajectories.

Measuring Resiliency

This formula measures how many viable futures a civilization can generate and maintain over time, despite increasing constraints. The more potential paths it can sustain even as challenges mount, the higher the yield, thus the more resilient the civilization. As with the Liquidity Index and Asymptotic Liquidity Limit, it is important to note that the STMC is a conceptual framework rather than a complete measurement instrument. My hope is that researchers, policymakers, and technologists will see the usefulness of a measurement tool of this kind, and use it develop more sophisticated models.

STMC formalizes this concept through metrics including the Superpositional Yield Formula, the Civilizational Yield Index (CYI), and a Decay Function for Lost Futures.