Variable [A]; Modular Hierarchies

This variable can be measured by quantifying the stability of each module and the structure as a whole; the effectiveness of the mechanisms used to improve stability. Depending on whether you're a lumper or a splitter, there can be more or fewer modules in the hierarchy, and there need not be a single possible module at each level. The relevant moral hierarchy is as follows:

Atoms=>Molecules=>Cells=>Organs=>Bodies=>Families=>Tribes=>Communities=>Cities=>Nations=>Civilizations.

Complex systems are formed out of stable modules because only modules that can exist for sufficiently long enough times can they reliably be implemented into larger modules, as with the Watch Makers' analogy. At each modular step there are mechanisms that can stabilize or improve itself or other modules in the structure. These hierarchies exist out of necessity due to survivorship bias; we are focusing on structures that have these mechanisms because they wouldn't exist without these mechanisms. 

Atoms and Molecules' stability mechanisms are in the laws of physics, in particular in the way that thermodynamic systems reach equilibrium after some time. In an isolated system, like an asteroid outside of a galaxy, equilibrium is reached when all atoms stop reacting with each-other and all usable energy is spent. In a solar system, where constant flow of energy in dumped into a planet by its star, and in planets where liquid water can exist, the path of least resistance for thermodynamic equilibrium is for atoms to form into molecules, some of these molecules are also the same ingredients that make up cells.

Cells, Organs, and Bodies, in some yet unknown mechanism of abiogenesis, molecules shift into cells. The idea is that after a long time of atoms reaching equilibrium from the sun's constant input of energy, molecules arise that can give shape to simple single celled life. Some time later, two modules join into one; the mitochondria gets eaten by another cell and they start cooperating in symbiosis. After this, evolution through natural selection takes over as the mechanism for stabilizing modules by way of eliminating the ones that can't compete or adapt. 

Bodies, Families and Tribes have mechanisms that retain trust, reciprocity, health safety etc. of the individual, of the group and among the members. We call these mechanisms social norms, responsibilities, respect and morality. The groups or individuals that have these tend to remain cohesive for long periods of time. Kinship makes the bonds easier to mend and as tribes grow and become less related, they tend to go their separate ways, usually after a fight or disagreement.

Communities, Cities and Civilizations formalize the common trends in morality to create rules of law and robust methods to resolve conflicts, punish criminals and monopolize the use of force to ensure families don't engage in ruthless cycles of revenge. 

The later stages of the hierarchy, when stable enough, allows for institutions to be formed that can improve on the modules in the lower levels. When the covid pandemic hit in 2020, scientific research institutions developed vaccines that combat the virus at the molecule and cell stages. Institutions like hospitals keep organs and bodies healthy through regular checkups and machines specialized in finding diseases like cancer. Schools educate children so as to facilitate their integration into society once they become adults. Psychology and therapy departments help resolve problems with one's own mind, within families and among members within larger communities.