AIM Framework glossary
Internal Loop Gain
Canonical definition
Internal Loop Gain is the quantity G ≡ κS·β·γ·σ'(V) defined in Appendix A.5, being the product of the three couplings (plus the σ' slope at the operating point V) that form the closed cycle in the Jacobian of the fast valuation system: κS from S into M, β from M into V, and γσ' from V into S. G is the stability-determining quantity of the fast valuation layer. Below the critical threshold Gcrit the fixed point is stable; above Gcrit the fixed point is unstable and the system exhibits PM compounding and rivalry escalation. G is the target of Class 2 Interventions.
Explanation
The Internal Loop Gain measures how strongly the S → M → V → S cycle feeds back on itself. When this gain is below a critical threshold, mimetic effects decay after each episode and the system behaves like transient social learning. When the gain exceeds the threshold, the cycle amplifies itself and produces compounding Mimetic Premium and rivalry escalation. Class 2 interventions work by turning this gain down.
Epistemic status
Framework-Specific Construct.
Derivation
Chapter 4, Section 4.4.13.1; formal statement at Appendix A, Section A.5 (fast layer) and Section A.5.6 (joint).