factdependent

Factdependent is a neologism used in knowledge representation, philosophy, and information-centric disciplines to describe statements, systems, or processes whose status or operation relies on factual information about the world. The term combines fact with dependent to emphasize that outcomes hinge on verified data rather than assumptions. Its exact meaning varies with context, and there is no single canonical definition.

In philosophy and logic, factdependent notions often relate to the truth conditions of contingent propositions—those whose truth relies on the actual state of affairs at a given time. A proposition may be considered factdependent if its verification requires specific facts about the world rather than mere linguistic or conceptual analysis.

In computer science, data science, and AI, factdependent systems depend on current or verified facts to function correctly. Examples include rule-based engines that only fire when a fact is present in a knowledge base, or predictive models whose inputs are up-to-date facts. Fact provenance and temporal validity become important concerns in such contexts to prevent stale or erroneous outcomes.

In journalism and policy, claims are described as factdependent when their credibility rests on corroborated facts. Factchecking and sources’ reliability are central to sustaining the integrity of factdependent reporting or decision-making processes.

Overall, the term highlights the central role of verifiable information in determining what is true, possible, or actionable within a given framework. See also: fact, contingent truth, truth conditions, fact-checking, knowledge base.