  I propose a method for tracking and assessing scientific progress using a
prediction consensus algorithm designed for the purpose. The protocol obviates
the need for centralized referees to generate scientific questions, gather
predictions, and assess the accuracy or success of those predictions. It relies
instead on crowd wisdom and a system of checks and balances for all tasks. It
is intended to take the form of a web-based, searchable database. I describe a
prototype implementation that I call Ex Quaerum. The main purpose of the
present document is to motivate the project, to explain its underlying
philosophy, to explain the details of the consensus protocol on which it is
based, to describe plans for its future development, and ultimately to attract
additional collaborators.
