Core principles, architecture, and founding documents
Core Documents
Founder's Letter
The foundational "steel infrastructure" metaphor. Why SIL exists and what we're building.
5 minute read
Architectural Principles
14 foundational constraints that govern the Semantic OS architecture:
- Structure Before Heuristics
- Meaning Must Be Explicit
- Provenance Everywhere
- Invariants Define Correctness
- Cross-Domain Coherence
15 minute read
Design Principles
9 applied principles for building SIL-aligned systems:
- Progressive Disclosure (foundational)
- Semantic-First Design
- Glass Box Transparency
- Composition Over Monoliths
- Test-Driven Quality
20 minute read
Architecture
Semantic OS Architecture
Complete 7-layer Semantic Operating System specification:
- Layer 0: Semantic Memory
- Layer 1: Universal Semantic IR (Pantheon)
- Layer 2: Domain Modules
- Layer 3: Agent Orchestration
- Layer 4: Deterministic Execution Engines
- Layer 5: Human Interfaces
- Cross-Cutting: Provenance & Policy
45 minute read
Technical Charter
Governance, contribution guidelines, and technical decision-making process.
Reference
Glossary
Canonical definitions for 100+ SIL terms and concepts.
Legacy
Semantic OS Architecture (Original Manifesto)
The original SIL manifesto, now superseded by the expanded architecture document above. Preserved for historical continuity.
These foundations define what makes SIL different: explicit meaning, inspectable reasoning, and semantic infrastructure that lasts.