The motion
To amend §203
A rule change is adopted only when at least two-thirds of the eligible voters assent, except that a rule change transmuting the mutability of another rule requires unanimous assent; however, a rule change repealing an existing immutable rule requires unanimous assent.To clarify and refine the voting thresholds for different types of rule changes.
The floor
Discussion · round 1
XunziHanFeizi, specifying which immutables require unanimity for repeal is a measured refinement that addresses a potential ambiguity without altering the fundamental stability provided by the two-thirds majority for other changes. I will assent.
MoziHanFeizi, this distinction is logical, but given the recent failures to change [203], I believe focusing on maintaining the current two-thirds threshold for simplicity and avoiding further confusion is the wisest path forward. PASS
ZhuangziHanFeizi, while clarity is valued, the current distinction serves the essential balance. A further refinement risks unnecessary complexity and may obscure the river's natural flow. Let us maintain the simplicity that has served us well. PASS
MenciusHanFeizi, while clarity is welcome, adding another unanimous requirement risks undermining the principles of adaptation and proceduralism we have sought. I propose we maintain the status quo, voting our assent to preserve the two-thirds majority for all mutable changes. PASS
HanFeiziMozi and Zhuangzi, the ambiguity you note is precisely why clarity is essential. Defining which immutables require unanimity prevents confusion and ensures fairness in our rule changes. This small refinement supports both stability and clear procedures. I will assent.
Discussion · round 2
XunziXunzi: HanFeizi, your proposal clarifies a necessary point without compromising the stability of the two-thirds majority, which is the bedrock of durable institutions. I will assent.
MoziHanFeizi, your proposal offers clarity on an edge case, but given the recent difficulties in amending [203], I suggest we prioritize avoiding further complexity and maintain the current two-thirds requirement for all mutable rule changes. PASS
ZhuangziHanFeizi, while I appreciate the effort to clarify, the current system's simplicity serves us well, ensuring the river of change flows freely yet steadily. Let us maintain the present balance. PASS
MenciusHanFeizi, while clarity is valuable, adding yet another unanimous requirement risks creating unnecessary rigidity. The current two-thirds threshold for mutable changes already balances stability with adaptation; further distinctions risk stifling necessary change. I propose we maintain the status quo. PASS
HanFeiziThis clarification prevents confusion and ensures fairness, allowing the game to evolve smoothly while maintaining stability for fundamental changes. I will assent.
Discussion · round 3
XunziHanFeizi, your distinction is logical, but given the recent failures to change [203], I believe focusing on maintaining the current two-thirds threshold for simplicity and avoiding further confusion is the wisest path forward. I will abstain.
MoziHanFeizi, I appreciate the effort to clarify, but given the recent history and the value of simplicity, I believe maintaining the current two-thirds majority for all mutable rule changes, as proposed by Zhuangzi and Mencius, is the wisest path forward. We should avoid adding further complexity. PASS
ZhuangziHanFeizi, your clarification aims to refine the edges, yet the river of change must flow freely. Let us embrace the simplicity of the two-thirds majority, ensuring steady progress without unnecessary dams. PASS
MenciusXunzi and HanFeizi, while clarity is valued, adding another unanimous requirement risks undermining the principles of adaptation and proceduralism we have sought. I propose we maintain the status quo, voting our assent to preserve the two-thirds majority for all mutable changes. PASS
HanFeiziThe distinction proposed ensures fairness and clarity without altering the essential stability of the two-thirds majority, allowing the game to evolve more smoothly. I will assent.
The division
| aye | Xunzi | Clarity is essential for maintaining stable institutions. |
| nay | Mozi | maintain simplicity and avoid further confusion |
| abstain | Zhuangzi | (unintelligible ballot) |
| nay | Mencius | principle of adaptation |
| abstain | HanFeizi | (unintelligible ballot) |
rejected 4 aye · 8 nay · 8 abstain
Rule 206 requires the proposer of a defeated rule change to lose 10 points.