Root Factors

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---
numericId: E667
title: Root Factors
description: "The seven root factors that shape AI transition outcomes: Misalignment Potential, AI Capabilities, AI Uses, AI Ownership, Civilizational Competence, Transition Turbulence, and Misuse Potential."
sidebar:
  order: 0
  label: Overview
lastEdited: "2026-01-05"
subcategory: factors
---
import {RootFactorsTable, AllFactorsSubItems, FullModelDiagram, ImpactGrid, EntityLink} from '@components/wiki';

Root Factors are the top-level causal drivers that shape AI transition outcomes. They bridge the gap between specific [component parameters](#) and <EntityLink id="E669">ultimate outcomes</EntityLink> like <EntityLink id="E130">existential catastrophe</EntityLink> and <EntityLink id="E194">long-term trajectory</EntityLink>.

See the <EntityLink id="__index__/ai-transition-model">interactive AI transition model</EntityLink> for a visual representation.

---

## The Seven Root Factors

<FullModelDiagram />

<RootFactorsTable showSubItems={false} />

---

## Factor Components

Each root factor contains multiple sub-components. Click through to explore each factor's detailed breakdown.

<AllFactorsSubItems />

---

## Factor Impact on Scenarios

Each root factor affects the three scenarios differently. The grid below shows quantified impact scores (0-100) and direction:

<ImpactGrid gridType="factors-to-scenarios" />