The Theory Of Concentric Circles
A Structure Of Friendship

It is to be noted by the reader that the structure explained in this theory may not be a universal structure. The theory is still under study and is being improved as new evidence and observations come to light.

• The Theory of concentric circles states that each element in the group of friends is essentially a part of a circle and remains in it unless an external or internal force brings in a drastic change

• All the elements in the structure are bound by the illusion/need of friendship to remain in the structure irrespective of their position.

• It usually takes at least 5 yrs and a minimum of 15 to 20 elements for a clear and observable structure to be formed. The longer the time spend, the clearer the structure becomes.

• The size of the circle is independent of the number of elements present in it.

• If the distance between the 1^st and 3^rd circle is considered to be x and that between the 2^nd and 3^rd circle is considered to be y, then it has been observed that with respect to the 3^rd circle

x – y = negligible ~ 0
Thereby, x ~ y

• This makes it particularly difficult for the elements to recognize the structure in which they function and thus the number circles contained in them is always unconfirmed. It is also speculated that the inner circles has few elements which indulge in their own personal circles in the absence of other elements. There is, however, very little evidence in support of this assertion.

• Ideally all the elements have a tendency to focus towards the center therefore the elements in the inner circles are the usually the most popular/observed.

• As long as their circle or the circle(s) inside them are full, elements acknowledging the presence of an outer circle is highly unlikely but not impossible. The formation of this theory in itself is a testimony to that.

• As a result of the above two statements, it can never be known for sure how many circles in total exist in this particular structure.

• Many circles also have elements attached to their circles called “Conditional Elements”. These are basically elements that have a strong bonding with one particular element in the circle and therefore become a part of the circle as long as that particular element is present. Many times the presence of the conditional element is not appreciated by other elements but is tolerated nonetheless. The conditional elements usually have no fixed circle of their own and thereby their popularity and strength of bond varies drastically with each individual element irrespective of his/her circle.

• The aforementioned “Conditional elements” are always found to be facing towards the outer circle rather than the internal one. This way they have a greater chance of acceptance by other elements thus increasing there life span in the structure. This isn’t always the case since many conditional elements already have a reserved circle for them to go in the absence of the element with which they share their strong bond.

• There are certain elements in this structure which fit into more than one circle and hence should not be confused with conditional attachments. They are called “Adaptive elements” since the degree of adapting in them is much higher than other elements. In some extremely rare cases, an adaptive element makes a strong bond with the conditional element creating a rather awkward situation for the entire structure.

• The nature of bonds between the elements also depends on the circle. However the strength of the bonds should not confused with the size of the circle. The elements in the inner circles take very little time in making bonds but the durability of the bonds remains in question. The elements in the outer circle, on the other hand, take a long time in making bonds but have longer durability. There are few exceptions off course.

• The entry of new elements into this structure always takes place through the inner circles since outer circles are easily accepting despite taking a long time to form bonds.To many of us, the fact that the friendship structure is concentric in nature may seem disturbing or negative considering the amount of gap between the circles. But in actually, it is these very gaps that help sustain the structure for the elements are vast in number and have variable properties. These gaps ensure that no conflict of interest causes the entire structure to break away.

• On few occasions efforts are made by the elements to reduce the gap of the circles and bring the elements closer. This attempt of reunion, although appearing noble on the surface, is usually caused by necessity of situation or the need to fulfill a desire which requires large participation. This effort usually does more harm than good for the sustainability of the structure by bringing up more conflict and change in perceptions in between elements of different circles.

Below is the structure of friendship that has been observed over the years. The elements in yellow are adaptive elements.

Please note that corrections, certain elements and their places, etc are still to be figured out.