Records must identify scope and limitations.

Purpose

This principle ensures that records are not used beyond the boundaries for which they were created or recognized.

Principle

Records must identify scope and limitations.

Meaning

Every record applies somewhere and not everywhere. Clarifying what a record is meant to address—and what it is not meant to address—protects lawful interpretation and prevents overreach.

Limits are part of accuracy.

What Scope May Include

• Which house, clan, or body is involved.
• What territory or situation is addressed.
• Whether the record is advisory, descriptive, or decisive.
• Whether it applies temporarily or continuously.
• Who may rely upon it.

What Limitations May Include

• Matters intentionally left undecided.
• Conditions required for application.
• Areas outside the recorder’s authority.
• Known uncertainties or gaps.
• Restrictions on redistribution or interpretation.

Why This Matters

• Prevents local matters from becoming universal claims.
• Keeps temporary measures from hardening into permanent rules.
• Helps future readers avoid assumptions.
• Protects responsibility from drifting away from lawful holders.

Examples

• Notes from discussion may clarify ideas without confirming agreement.
• Guidance for one dispute may not bind others.
• A historical description may inform but not authorize.
• A procedural record may show steps without judging outcome.

Risks if Ignored

• Expansion of authority beyond recognition.
• Increased conflict between groups.
• Misapplication in new situations.
• External reinterpretation.

Safeguards

• Include explicit statements of what the record covers.
• Name what remains outside its reach.
• Distinguish clearly between observation and decision.
• Encourage review by lawful authorities when scope is uncertain.

Cross-references

• Context Must Accompany All Records
• Removal from Context Risks Distortion
• Method Matters as Much as Content
• Recording Does Not Transfer Interpretive Authority
• Public Availability Does Not Equal Unrestricted Use

Notes

Future work may include templates for declaring scope and limits in different kinds of records.