Towards a Discourse Quality Index Based on Compression, Resonance, and Tension (CRTI): A Theoretical Position Note on Reflective Platform Design

This concept paper introduces the Compression–Resonance–Tension Index (CRTI), a heuristic theoretical framework for analysing online discourse as a dynamic system. Drawing on cybernetics, platform economics, and complex systems theory, it proposes three analytical dimensions — Compression (semantic closure), Resonance (dialogic openness), and Tension (affective escalation) — as potential complements to standard engagement metrics in social media platforms. The paper argues that digital discourse may fail through premature semantic closure (over-compression) as much as through noise, and suggests hypothetical observational proxies for each dimension. No empirical validation has been conducted. The paper is intended as a starting point for an interdisciplinary research programme at the intersection of computational social science, platform design, and discourse theory.