Understanding Dunbar's Number: The Limits of Human Relationships

Dunbar's number proposes that humans can maintain about 150 meaningful relationships at once, a concept derived from the study of primate brain sizes and social behaviors. British anthropologist Robin Dunbar discovered that the size of the neocortex correlates with the size of social groups, leading to the conclusion that beyond 150 connections, a social network tends to weaken. While this number has been observed in various societies and contexts, such as workplaces and communities, the rise of social media complicates the application of this rule. Some researchers argue that modern digital interactions may allow for larger networks, though intimacy may still be limited. The article also highlights ongoing debates about the validity of Dunbar's number in today’s interconnected world.