Functional Equifinality and Substrate Neutrality in Constraint-Bound Execution

Abstract This paper presents a formal framework evaluating decision systems operating under strict non-violation constraints. This study analyzes a normative thought experiment where two structurally distinct agents or components—designated as $B$ and $C$—achieve an identical target outcome ($X_1$) while strictly avoiding bounded risk parameters ($H$, representing hazard/harm) and systemic constraints ($R$, representing noise/redundancy). Through this model, this manuscript addresses the fundamental question of whether primary ontological significance resides in agent identity and operational mechanics ("Who" and "How") or in constraint-satisfying outcome generation ("Action" + "Result"). This study demonstrates that within functional engineering, decision theory, and safety alignment, outcome fulfillment under non-violation bounds establishes Substrate Neutrality. Consequently, the execution of action paired with zero-collateral output holds primary structural validity, rendering the agent-identity distinction secondary. Keywords: Substrate Neutrality, Functional Equifinality, Constraint-Bound Execution, Law of Resultant Superiority, Principle of Outcome Dominance, Realized State Invariance, Constraint Satisfaction, Synthetic Intelligence Safety & Alignment, Decision Theory, Functional Ontology, Agent Identity.