This paper introduces Variance Ecology as a social-scientific application layer of the VASTIS theoretical framework. VASTIS formalises the dynamics of possibility spaces under irreversible selection. Variance Ecology applies this mechanism to societal systems: institutions, cultures, technologies, and governance structures are understood as stabilised selections within a shared possibility space. The central question is not what is possible, but what is sustainably possible. We introduce the core measure V(t) = width of functionally stable alternatives and derive three structural pathologies (under-variance, over-variance, selection density) along with corresponding normative principles (variance obligation, feedback obligation, integrity). The normative principles are derived structurally, not morally. v6 update: The formal connection between time theory (TEIL LXXXII) and system dynamics (TEIL IIa) is integrated — τ(t) = α·z(t) + γ·c(t) − β·b(t) — connecting selection density and transitional intensity via the evolution equation of the possibility space. Appendix A provides operational criteria for G089 (structural stability under context shift) and G094 (tipping point detection), closing the two primary open formalizations of the framework.
Brexner et al. (Fri,) studied this question.