Operating Principles
Prio1 Foundation follows a serious, method driven approach to a high impact topic. These principles exist to keep the work credible, non sensational, and useful to researchers, policymakers, and funders.
1 Methods before narratives
We prioritize explicit premises, clearly defined scope, and transparent methodology over stories, slogans, or dramatic framing. The goal is to make reasoning checkable.
2 Reality based and non sensational
We avoid hype, fear based messaging, and science fiction framing. We focus on mechanisms that can unfold quietly through incentives, dependency, and structural change.
3 Two horizons, no single bet
We work on two time horizons at the same time:
slowing harmful dynamics when possible
improving the odds of human continuity and viable living conditions if prevention fails
We do not build the mission on a single assumption about outcomes.
4 Clear uncertainty, no certainty posturing
We state uncertainty explicitly. We avoid presenting outputs as proof or inevitability. We publish material as analysis produced under defined methods with known limitations.
5 Transparency by default
We intend to publish core research outputs openly. We design our work so that assumptions, reasoning, and limitations can be examined by others. Where full openness is not responsible, we state why.
6 Comparative discipline
When possible, we use comparable setups across systems so results can be evaluated consistently. We aim to separate method from opinion.
7 Safety boundaries
We do not publish operational instructions for wrongdoing. We do not provide step by step guidance that meaningfully enables harm. If a topic touches sensitive operational details, we generalize, omit, or reframe.
8 Independence through direct support
Supporting Membership exists to fund independent research and transparency. It is mission support, not a premium content subscription. We avoid incentives that would push the work toward engagement driven output.
9 Respectful disagreement and serious discourse
We welcome critical feedback and useful disagreement. We do not reward posturing, identity fights, or rhetorical dominance. The work should remain intelligible and professional across cultures and backgrounds.
10 Universal value of life
Prio1 Foundation treats human life and the wider living world as valuable regardless of religion, nationality, or political affiliation. The work aims to improve the odds of viable futures without requiring ideological alignment.
11 Clear structure and honest status
Prio1 Foundation is planned and not yet formally registered. Until formal registration, operations and payments are handled by Prio1 Ltd (Prio1 Oy, Finland). We keep this distinction explicit and simple.
12 Iteration and versioning
We expect to revise materials as new information changes the analysis. Publications are versioned and updated when warranted. We treat corrections as a sign of rigor, not weakness.