For most of human history, Our ancestors were happy to reside in small, relatively self-sufficient groups.
According to a theory proposed by Robin Dunbar, theorized that the maximum number of people with whom an individual can have significant relationships is 150.
But how valid is Dunbar's hypothesis? Is it true that the average person has no more than 150 close friends? It's been decades since he first made this assertion in print.
Still, there are studies and experts who aren't so sure. People's social networks range in size from very small to very large.
A group of researchers have concluded that while Dunbar's number is generally correct, it does have some important caveats.
The time and effort needed to maintain relationships beyond our cognitive limits is another factor to think about.
Even if we don't particularly care for all 150 of them, we keep in touch because doing so is useful or necessary.
Is it possible to keep up as many connections as we used to with today's busy lifestyles and constant distractions? The research of Dunbar suggests otherwise.