In this episode of the Art of Deciding, Bruce and his guests tackle the science of decision-making, exploring how our social connections shape the choices we make. He is joined by Robin Dunbar, a renowned professor of evolutionary psychology, and Sam Rockey from consultancy Thompson Harrison, co-authors of The Social Brain, The Psychology of Successful Groups. The pair share their insights on the science behind our social interactions and their impact on organisational success.
Robin & Sam on decisions
Dunbar introduces his famous concept, Dunbar’s number, which posits that humans can maintain a maximum of 150 meaningful relationships at any one time. This number isn’t just a statistic; it’s a reflection of our evolutionary history as social beings. As communities formed, the complexity of human interaction increased, leading to the need for effective decision-making strategies that could accommodate the diverse perspectives within these groups.
Sam Rockey expands on this by discussing the Thrive model, which identifies key components necessary for a thriving organisation: collective purpose, belonging, learning, trust, and a strong culture. Each of these elements plays a role in ensuring that teams not only function effectively but also foster an environment where individuals feel valued and connected.
They discuss the importance of group size in decision-making processes. Research suggests that smaller groups—ideally around five people—are optimal for fast decision-making without the need for facilitation, allowing all voices to be heard equally. However, as the complexity of the task increases, so too should the size of the group, with 12 to 15 members being ideal for more intricate decisions.
They also touch on the environments in which we all make decisions. Are we prioritising efficiency over meaningful connections? Are we fostering spaces that encourage open dialogue and collaboration? Dunbar and Rockey assert that creating a sense of community within the workplace can significantly enhance both decision-making and overall well-being.
Tune in for a discussion that bridges the gap between the art and science of deciding.
References:
Robin Dunbar
https://www.ox.ac.uk
Robin Dunbar’s Work:
Dunbar’s Number
Sam Rocky
https://www.thompsonharrison.com
SAB Miller
https://www.sabmiller.com
The Social Brain: The Psychology of Successful Groups
https://www.thesocialbrainbook.com