Recursive Polycentric Moderation (RPM) : Application of the Localities — Neighbors — Distants Framework to Digital Platforms

This paper introduces Recursive Polycentric Moderation (RPM), a distributed moderation framework for digital platforms and social networks. RPM constitutes a direct application of the Recursive Polycentric Governance (RPG) framework and addresses the structural limitations of centralized and purely community-based moderation systems. The model relies on a double-majority judgment mechanism combining contextual evaluation by neighboring communities with structurally independent evaluation by distant communities. This architecture enables trans-community accountability without centralized authority, while preserving local normative autonomy. RPM defines no substantive moral standards. It proposes a minimal procedural structure through which distributed normativity may emerge at scale. The framework is designed to resist brigading, reduce echo chambers, preserve contextual sensitivity, and remain computationally scalable for large platforms. Theoretical framework reference:Recursive Polycentric Governance (RPG)https://zenodo.org/records/18306005 Project website:https://sylebel.net