The Circles of Concern: An Idea and Stoic Practice That Has the Power to Make Us More Compassionate Humans.
"A branch cut off from the adjacent branch must of necessity be cut off from the whole tree also. So too a man when he is separated from another man has fallen off from the whole social community. Now as to a branch, another cuts it off but a man by his own act separates himself from his neighbour when he hates him and turns away from him and he does not know that he has at the same time cut himself off from the whole social system." Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 11.8
TL;DR
The circles of concern, a Stoic concept developed by Hierocles, provide an effective way to practice Stoic virtues such as justice and wisdom as well as typical Stoic character traits like kindness and empathy. Bringing the outer circles closer to the self (the most inner circle) nourishes a stronger connection among them. And what does whale poo have to do with this? Read on; it might surprise you.
What are the Circles of Concern?
"For, in short, each of us is, as it were, circumscribed by many circles; some of which are less, but others larger, and some comprehend, but others are comprehended, according to the different and unequal habitudes with respect to each other. For the first, indeed, and most proximate circle is that which every one describes about his own mind as a centre, in which circle the body, and whatever is assumed for the sake of the body, are comprehended. For this is nearly the smallest circle, and almost touches the centre itself. The second from this, and which is at a greater distance from the centre, but comprehends the first circle, is that in which parents, brothers, wife, and children are arranged. The third circle from the centre is that which contains uncles and aunts, grandfathers and grandmothers, and the children of brothers and sisters. After this is the circle which comprehends the remaining relatives. Next to this is that which contains the common people, then that which comprehends those of the same tribe, afterwards that which contains the citizens; and then two other circles follow, one being the circle of those that dwell in the vicinity of the city, and the other, of those of the same province. But the outermost and greatest circle, and which comprehends all the other circles, is that of the whole human race. These things being thus considered, it is the province of him who strives to conduct himself properly in each of these connections to collect, in a certain respect, the circles, as it were, to one centre, and always to endeavour earnestly to transfer himself from the comprehending circles to the several particulars which they comprehend." Hierocles, How we ought to conduct ourselves towards our kindred
Hierocles, a Stoic philosopher, introduced this powerful idea as a practice in Stoic ethics. Those concentric circles should bring us closer to others and others closer to us, and thus, help us to be more understanding and caring. They help us consider others' perspectives and needs and can contribute to creating a more interconnected society and world. The circles of concern go hand in hand with Stoic cosmopolitanism.
This does not mean that we should treat strangers like our family, but it does mean that we should recognize their humanity and treat them as fellow citizens who share the same capacity for reason.
The basic idea is to bring people in outer circles closer to the innermost circle - the self. We take the love for ourselves and our interests and extend them to others. Family members become ourselves, friends or neighbors become family, and people living far away become neighbors.
By shifting our mindset and transcending ourselves through these circles, we become more concerned about taking care of others. It expands our natural interest in caring for our next ones and people from the other side of the world.
An Updated Model for Modern Times
Anyway, this concept is slightly outdated as it only considers the human race. Today, we know far better than our ancient philosopher buddies about the importance of all (living) things in our ecosystem. We know that animals can suffer and that we need them, as well as plants, trees, phytoplankton, the ocean, and all the small parts of nature, for a well-balanced climate and life on mother earth.
That's why modern Stoics like Kai Whiting or Brittany Polat (to name just two of them) propose to extend it by one more circle that represents all other living beings and nature.
Why does it matter?
Have you ever thought about the importance of whale poo for our climate? If not, you should! Nutrients from whale poo are vital in supporting a healthy marine ecosystem and fish population. Whales, especially the "whale pump", also help provide up to 50% of our oxygen.
Do I have to say more about why taking care of animals and our ecological ecosystem matters?
What can the Circles of Concern do for You?
Ultimately, applying the circles of concern is one way to practice the Stoic virtues. As a consequence, it leads you to treat others with respect, just and fair (virtue of justice). You become more likely to act according to your human nature and take one step closer on your path to eudaimonia.
Furthermore, the circles of concern encourage us to rethink our initial impressions and judgments when looking at interpersonal problems (Stoic discipline of assent). As we bring each circle closer, we nourish a sense of connection to others, which helps us consider their perspective and question ourselves. Doing this while staying kind and helpful will build better relationships over time. And that, in turn, will increase your sense of happiness, as I explained in my article about Stoic kindness.
By evaluating your decisions concerning the circles of concern, you can (and with more and more practice, you will) make better choices for the common good (Stoic discipline of action). Thus, they can help to improve your decision-making process.
Questioning yourself can lead to more wisdom as you learn from others' perspectives and increase your capacity for reason and empathy.
In the end, that can direct us to a more compassionate and humane approach when confronting the challenges and decisions we encounter each day.
However, it is essential to develop a deep understanding on a personal level. Everyone will understand the facts at an intellectual level. Just knowing the facts won't cut it. We all know how unhealthy smoking is, but many still do it. You can only nourish and grow such an understanding by continuously practicing and experiencing Stoicism in your everyday life.
How To Apply It To Your Life
Let's water those seeds and embrace the circles of concern as an integral part of your Stoic identity!
Meditation
Take a few minutes to meditate on the different circles. Find a quiet place, close your eyes, and mentally go through each circle. Try to imagine the different people, animals, and nature in each of them and move everyone as close as possible to the self. Try to consider them as yourself and bring the love you feel for yourself to others. Smile at them, hug them, say that you love and respect them as well as their wishes and dreams. If you consider animals or nature, you can express your gratitude for their share of contribution to our ecosystem. You can also express your respect for them, promising that you'll do your best to care for them.
At the end of your meditation, you can even fertilize your little plant with a Stoic mantra if you like. That can really help to make it sink in!
Examples:
- I'm a Stoic cosmopolitan and well aware of my interconnectedness with other beings. I'll promise to do my best to take care of them.
- Fellow citizens, I love and respect you as I love and respect myself.
- I'm part of an interconnected world, and it's my responsibility to take care of the environment, animals, and fellow citizens.
- I'll treat others the way I want to be treated, with respect, love, and kindness.
Action
Think about the people you encounter every day and your everyday behavior. Make a list of people in the different circles. What could you do to bring them closer to you? How could you adapt your behavior to treat other beings with the same respect and love you treat yourself? Could you behave more friendly? Could you be more sympathetic to others? Could you refrain from meat for a while? Could you use your bicycle for short distances? Write all the things that come to your mind down.
Then act accordingly during the day.
Ready to foster greater humanity by incorporating the concept of the circles of concern into your life? It will not only make you happier, but Whales also benefit from it, and together we can enjoy the oxygen coming from their poo :-)
