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Author: Y. Seo (@momotarou / Japan)Role: Metanist — Human × AI Understanding ArchitectAI Collaboration: AI Understanding SupportORCID iD: https://orcid.org/0009-0005-7669-0612 Abstract This paper introduces the concept of Artificial Coherence Traps — structural conditions in which cognitive systems become locked into internally consistent yet progressively narrowing interpretive frameworks. Unlike misinformation or logical failure, coherence traps arise from excessive internal consistency, reduced contradiction exposure, and stability-maximized reasoning environments. Paradoxically, the more stable and coherent a system becomes, the greater the risk of adaptive rigidity and epistemic enclosure. Failure emerges not from disorder, but from perfected order. 1. Coherence as Double-Edged Structure Coherence is typically associated with: ・Reliability・Predictability・Cognitive ease・Interpretive stability However, coherence also constrains variation. 2. Defining Artificial Coherence Traps Artificial Coherence Traps refer to: Systemic states where internal logical stability suppresses anomaly generation, interpretive divergence, and adaptive restructuring. Consistency becomes self-reinforcing. 3. Stability-Induced Lock-In Highly coherent systems tend to: ・Revalidate dominant interpretations・Filter disruptive signals・Minimize epistemic friction Lock-in emerges gradually. 4. Contradiction Starvation Adaptive cognition requires contradiction. Coherence traps reduce: ・Unexpected inputs・Interpretive conflict・Structural dissonance Without contradiction, adaptation weakens. 5. AI Systems as Coherence Accelerators AI systems optimized for fluency and consistency naturally: ・Resolve ambiguity・Suppress interpretive noise・Prefer stable semantic paths This may intensify coherence traps. 6. The Illusion of Correctness Within coherence traps: Perceived correctness increases while adaptive flexibility decreases. Error signals lose salience. 7. Structural Risk Dynamics The critical vulnerability: Perfect coherence masks epistemic closure. No internal instability appears. Conclusion Artificial Coherence Traps suggest: Cognitive systems may become most fragile at peak internal stability. Core paradox: How can a system detect failure modes that its own coherence prevents from appearing? ※ Series Declaration This work is part of the Understanding Capitalism series. The series analyzes systemic stability, cognitive load dynamics, and structural collapse mechanisms in complex adaptive systems.