What does Dunbars number 159 refers to the number of?

Answer 1

Dunbar's number, typically cited as 150, refers to the cognitive limit to the number of stable social relationships an individual can maintain. However, the number 159 can be seen as an extension or variation of this concept, suggesting that an individual can manage a slightly higher number of acquaintances or relationships in a social network. This number encompasses not only close friends but also acquaintances, indicating the maximum size of a community in which individuals can engage in meaningful interactions. Overall, it highlights the limitations of human social capacity in a complex social environment.