Theory of the Elasticity of Concepts

A theoretical framework proposing that concepts are not fixed, rigid containers but possess elasticity—they can stretch, contract, and adapt to new contexts while retaining core identity. A concept like “democracy” can stretch to include parliamentary systems, direct voting, or even authoritarian regimes that claim popular mandate; “freedom” can stretch from absence of coercion to positive capabilities. This elasticity allows concepts to survive across historical and cultural shifts but also makes them vulnerable to manipulation—actors can stretch a concept until it loses meaning or contract it to exclude inconvenient applications. The theory explains how political, legal, and social concepts remain functional despite constant reinterpretation.

Example: “The theory of the elasticity of concepts explained how ‘justice’ could simultaneously refer to restorative practices in indigenous communities and retributive sentencing in Western courts—the same concept, stretched to cover vastly different practices.”

Theory of the Elasticity of Concepts by Abzugal Nammugal Enkigal March 24, 2026