Intelligence Squared The Magic Number for Creating a Successful Team, with Robin Dunbar
Jun 23, 2024
Robin Dunbar, Emeritus Professor of evolutionary psychology at Oxford, delves into his famous theory, Dunbar's Number, explaining that humans thrive in around 150 meaningful relationships. He emphasizes the crucial role of face-to-face interactions for creativity and team cohesion, especially in today’s hybrid work environment. Joined by Sophie McBain, they explore how cultivating social connections can enhance workplace belonging and boost employee well-being, while discussing the challenges organizations face in fostering these essential relationships.
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Dunbar's Number and Brain Size
- Dunbar's number, suggesting a limit of 150 meaningful relationships, correlates with brain size.
- This connection between brain size and social group size exists in primates and possibly other mammals.
Dunbar's Graph and Social Layers
- The Dunbar graph reveals layers within our social networks, each with specific sizes and contact frequencies.
- These layers, roughly 5, 15, 50, and 150, represent varying levels of intimacy and support.
Maintaining Relationships
- Maintain relationships by frequent contact; relationships decay without it.
- Face-to-face interaction is most impactful but other communication helps.
