Solving the Meso-Macro Transition Problem in Q-Methodology: Factor Entropy as a Metric of Collective Coherence

The classical problem of transitioning from the meso-level (small groups) to the macro-level (societal structures) remains conceptually contentious and lacks a universally accepted formal solution in sociology. Q-methodology, traditionally confined to the meso-level, has lacked a formal apparatus for extrapolating results to macroprocesses. This paper proposes a solution through the concept of factor entropy as a metric of collective coherence. Relying on a three-level architecture of social time (Information → Subjectivity → Social Time) and Sorkin's anhomomorphic logic, we demonstrate that factors in Q-methodology represent trajectories of emergent meaning configurations. The macro-level is operationalised as the dominant factor with minimal entropy (H → 0) and maximal amplitude (λ → 1). The dynamics of factor entropy H(t) enable tracking phase transitions and predicting collective collapses. An operational protocol for longitudinal Q-studies with entropy metric calculation is proposed, applicable independently of the ontological status of quantum social theory.