Has your Network exceeded the Dunbar's Number -150 ?

In 1990 , A British anthropologist Robin dunbar proposed a theory , suggesting a directly proportional relation between brain size and social circle, means bigger the size of brain -larger is the social circle.

It’s notable that when you have a large group , you can reach out for help to many and distant people during tough times and also you can help them in return when time favours you. But the question is how big shall be your network and is it possible to manage that group.

Research articles suggest that Neanderthals, an extinct species of humans that lived in Eurasia 40,000 years ago, lived in groups of 110 and had the cognitive skills to understand each other’s feelings. Does that mean 110 -150 was perhaps more than enough number of humans to socialize with and to maintain.

Why earlier settled villages were small with a small population of just 120- 150 people? Why a military company consists of 100-140 soldiers ? The answer lies in Dunbar's theory.

Perhaps Dunbar has the answer for these simple questions. He suggested that each one has relationships in few sets or circles. The inner circle has maximum 5 people who are closest to a person. The second circle consists of best friends that range up to 15. Third circle & fourth circle can have 50 and 100 people respectively who can be just friends or acquaintances. In summation an individual can have 150 friends. Now in Today's scenario - A virtual world- where we do not meet people but remain connected on virtual platforms- what is the number of people with whom we can maintain good relationships emotionally ?

With thousands of connections on LinkedIn, of course professional connections - how many of them we actually know personally. How many of them help you during tough times - How many of us can even remember 150 names of your closed friends or relatives. The world is shrinking and so does relationships. It does not make you bad , but one must be mindful to have a true friendship with his or her inner circle of people. These are the people who help you in tough times , provide you an emotional support and give you inner strength , many times taking care of your mental health.

Does your number falls within Dunbar’s range of 150 ? If yes - you might have reached your networking goal.

Just to mention - My Opinion is Networking Goal is all about giving. Once you start giving , then only you start receiving.

Well, any friendship or relationship requires investment of time. The duration of your talks with others can infer who belongs to which set of dunbar. Since this topic is debatable , I will appreciate your comments , especially from those who believes that Dunbar’s number doesn’t hold any good.

...Cya.