Data from various settings suggest that there is an upper limit of about four on the number of individuals who can interact in spontaneous conversation.
Abstract
Data from various settings suggest that there is an upper limit of about four on the number of individuals who can interact in spontaneous conversation.
This limit appears to be a consequence of the mechanisms of speech production and detection.
There appear to be no differences between men and women in this respect, other than those introduced by women’s lighter voices.
Authors
Robin Dunbar
, N. D. C. Duncan, and D. Nettle
Paper
Posts that link to this paper
- What Is the Optimum Group Size for a Conversation? More than five people and it is not a conversation
Books: Robin Dunbar (1)
Image Credits: Midjourney
(Public Domain)This page is part of a blook on Conversational Leadership. Parts of this book have restricted access. You can learn more about the book and how to obtain full access on the home page.
Conversational Leadership Coaching
Lead through presence and dialogue. This coaching helps you convene the important conversations others avoid—and grow your leadership by practicing, not just planning.