Kappa (κ) - Temporal Calibration of Entropic Cost in VCore-Governed Systems

This work introduces Kappa (κ) as a foundational temporal calibration constant within the VCore–CET framework. Building upon the Temporal Governance Framework (VCore) and the Temporal Entropic Cost (CET), this paper addresses a structural gap in temporal metrics: the absence of calibration mechanisms capable of normalizing coherence degradation into governable temporal cost. Kappa (κ) functions as a proportional factor that links the rate of internal coherence loss to the effective accumulation of temporal entropic cost, enabling normalization, cross-system comparability, and decision-level governance. Through κ, CET transitions from a relative trajectory signal to a calibrated metric suitable for anticipatory governance across heterogeneous systems. The paper further introduces the concept of Temporal Cost Units (KU) as discrete operational units derived from κ-normalized CET, allowing temporal cost to be quantified, tracked, and constrained within decision processes. This publication constitutes a foundational extension of the VCore–CET corpus and formalizes temporal calibration as a core requirement for sustainable governance of complex systems under uncertainty.