Six degrees of separation theory stands up to test

In a world of 6.6 billion people, it does seem hard to believe. The theory of six degrees of separation contends that, because we are all linked by chains of acquaintance, you are just six introductions away from any other person on the planet.

But yesterday researchers announced the theory was right-nearly. By studying billions of electronic messages, they worked out that any two strangers are, on average, distanced by precisely 6.6 degrees of separation.

In other words, putting fractions to one side, you are linked by a string of seven or fewer acquaintances to Madonna or the Queen. The news will come as no surprise to film buffs who for years have been playing the parlor game Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon, in which they link other actors to Bacon in six films or fewer.