Conceptual Governance distinguishes disciplined conceptual development from unrestricted conceptual change. Scientific concepts evolve as understanding improves, but conceptual revision should strengthen rather than weaken the coherence of the explanatory framework.
Within APS, Conceptual Governance is implemented through mechanisms such as canonical definitions, canonical lock dates, revision histories, glossary audits, conceptual audits, and dependency audits. These mechanisms ensure that conceptual changes are evaluated in relation to their consequences for the wider conceptual architecture rather than being introduced in isolation.
Conceptual Governance therefore complements Conceptual Stability. Conceptual Stability describes the condition in which concepts function reliably within explanation, whereas Conceptual Governance describes the organisational processes that establish, preserve, and responsibly develop that stability over time.
In this way, Conceptual Governance enables APS to remain scientifically responsive while maintaining the conceptual continuity required for cumulative biological explanation.