rule of 150

is the idea that the human species socializes effectively in groups with a natural limit of 150 individuals, be that military units or factory settings).

Rule of 150. Humans (and other species) socialize in groups, but a natural limit (social channel capacity) determines the maximum number of individuals with whom we can have a genuine social relationship. Robin Dunbar calculates a measurement referred to as the neocortex ratio of a particular species which relates to the size of the brain. For humans the ratio is approximately 150 (p. 179). Gladwell provides a number of interesting examples to support this aspect of the power of context. Effective military units are usually limited to 200 members. Hutterites split into two colonies when the size of the colony approaches 150. Gore Associates limited the size of their plants to 50,000 square feet to accommodate 150 employees after discovering that beyond 150 people per plant 'things get clumsy.' At Gore Associates there are no titles, organization charts, budgets, or elaborate strategic plans. Employees have sponsors, but no bosses. What they discovered is that small group peer pressure is much more powerful than the concept of a boss. Limiting the size of the business unit facilitates cooperation and makes it easier for new ideas to tip to the entire group.

rule of 150, n.All

rule of 150