Aula 05 - Analysis: The inner ring

     C.S. Lewis describes the phenomenon of the inner ring as a natural tendency that humans have towards forming groups, or rings as he calls it, where the formal hieararchy system is not followed. The problem emphasized by him is not the ring itself, or being a part of it, but living by the desire of being inside and the fear of being left outside.
     Applying this theory in the current society system, it is possible to identify many different rings, good or bad ones. In the professional environment specifically, the formation of these groups is evident. A group of people who have amenities, who enjoy the same topic or even spend a significant amount of time working together will probably constitute a ring. Again, like C.S. Lewis said, friendship should grow between those who work together, and so, this would be an example of a good ring. In the academic environment, an example of an evil ring could be a group of students who exchange documents from classes so they do not have to do it from scratch by themselves. 

     Although the rings can be classified as good or evil, the thesis statement here is not about this classification, but about the desire. Something can be morally acceptable and yet the desire for it be dangerous. He calls this specimen "inner ringers", in other words, a person that, whether being inside the ring or surrounding one that they can never enter, is moved by the desire. One more time, in the academic environment, a person who pursues a tittle of master or doctor just by the honor of having this attribution and not by the passion required to prosecute this profession can be called an inner ringer.

     In conclusion, people will naturally create groups, rings, being them good or evil. The problem starts when they seek what is not to be had: whenever they conquer what they want, there will be nothing left and they will desire to enter in another ring. People should rest in the light of their existence, try new experiences, of course, but not be moved by the longing of having it.

Until you conquer the fear of being an outsider, an outsider you will remain (C.S. Lewis, 1944).

Referências

LEWIS, C.S. The Inner Ring. Oration at University of London, 1944.