Misuse undermines legitimacy.

Purpose

This principle warns that improper handling or application of records weakens confidence in both the material and the system that maintains it.

Principle

Misuse undermines legitimacy.

Meaning

When records are applied outside their scope, taken out of context, used without standing, or presented as authority they do not possess, trust declines. Legitimacy depends on responsible conduct.

Improper use harms more than accuracy — it harms relationship.

What Misuse May Include

• Quoting selectively.
• Ignoring limits or permissions.
• Claiming authority not granted.
• Presenting drafts as final.
• Applying local matters universally.
• Treating informational material as binding.

Why Legitimacy Matters

• People must believe the system is fair.
• Knowledge holders must feel respected.
• Disputes must have credible reference points.
• Future generations must inherit something reliable.

Effects of Misuse

• Increased skepticism.
• Withdrawal of cooperation.
• More restrictions on access.
• Growth of conflict.

Responsibility of Users

Every person who reads or shares material becomes part of maintaining or weakening legitimacy.

Examples

• Using a historical document to bypass present authority.
• Repeating information without context.
• Circulating restricted material publicly.
• Turning commentary into rule.

Safeguards

• Teach proper use clearly.
• Attach scope and limits.
• Provide channels for clarification.
• Address misuse with correction and education.

Cross-references

• Public Availability Does Not Equal Unrestricted Use
• Context Determines Lawful Use
• Selective Recording Distorts Meaning
• Recording Does Not Transfer Interpretive Authority
• Lawful Access Preserves Trust

Notes

Future development may include response pathways when misuse occurs.