10% Happier with Dan Harris The Science of Making and Keeping Friends | Robin Dunbar
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Oct 24, 2022 
Robin Dunbar, Emeritus Professor of Evolutionary Psychology at Oxford, discusses the essential nature of friendships in our lives. He reveals his concept of Dunbar's number—about 150 meaningful relationships our brains can manage. The conversation explores the impact of social media on friendships, offers insights on the evolutionary significance of social bonds, and highlights the physiological benefits of friendships. With practical tips, Dunbar emphasizes the importance of nurturing connections and addresses the growing loneliness in today’s society.
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Dan Harris's Friendship Realization
- Dan Harris prioritized work over friendships for 30 years, causing them to atrophy.
- After retiring, he realized the importance of close relationships and actively worked to rebuild them.
Dunbar's Number Explained
- Dunbar's number is the limit of meaningful relationships one can maintain, including family, friends, and even pets.
- This number, around 150, represents people with whom you feel an obligation and would invite to significant life events.
Layers of Friendship
- Relationships are layered like ripples, with the innermost circle being the most intimate (around five people).
- These layers extend to 150 (close friends), 500 (acquaintances), and up to 5,000 (recognizable faces).
