What is the optimal tribe size?
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The optimal tribe size for humans is debated, but evidence suggests a few key points. Anthropologist highlights the cognitive capacity of humans to maintain personal relationships with around 150 people, known as Dunbar's Number. This figure is supported by social behaviors in modern times, such as the number of social media contacts we regularly interact with 1.
However, smaller group sizes are often more functional, particularly in historical and hunter-gatherer contexts. notes that while humans are capable of managing relationships within a group of 150, hunter-gatherer groups tend to operate more smoothly with about 20-30 members. Larger groups often lead to increased conflict and inefficiency 2.
adds that historically, tribes would grow until they reached around 100 members and then split to maintain manageability and resource availability. This splitting prevented overextension of resources and facilitated better social cohesion 3.
In essence, while 150 is often cited as an upper limit for maintaining personal relationships, smaller groups of 20-30 individuals tend to function more effectively in day-to-day interactions, especially in environments requiring close cooperation and resource sharing.
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