Degradation — does the kernel survive?
HYPOTHESIS
The minimum path to a completed transaction should run with every optional layer off.
BUILD
A test that switches each product application off in turn and drives the kernel: vehicle, truth, appointment, numbers, decision, transaction.
MEASUREMENT
Kernel completion with each layer disabled.
RESULT
Passes with every layer off.
DECISION
Adopted as a permanent gate. Nothing above the kernel may become mandatory.