"The average human can name about 1,500 people, and we personally know about 500.¹
But most of those people won't help us in times of need.
The people who will help are our friends – and psychologist Robin Dunbar argues that we have an average of 150 people who we try to stay in touch with.² Within that group, we have about 15 friends and family we contact each month and one to two people with whom we share an intimate relationship – often a partner, and sometimes a "best friend forever.""
@antiaall3s I remember, the more ignorant I was, the more friends I had, like at college or workplaces or wherever. Circumstantial friends - what most people are satisfied with ("My school locker was next to this person's so we go way back," "I shared my lunch break with that person for years," etc.) The more I believed in things, and acted accordingly, the fewer friends I had, but also the better friends I had - ones I shared a profound sense of political principles with; a good rapport and understanding. Few and far between. Precious and valued. (People very much like you, actually, and we haven't even known each other very long!) But I think popularity is often a sign someone believes in little, and speaks about it even less. It may explain a lot about the world.
@MediaActivist Very true. I do think that social media is not very helpful, at least some aspects of it, as it can give the illusion to have friends, to not feel lonely. And i admit i have fallen for that in the past. At the same time, social media can help to connect to people. To become friends needs that next step. To take if offline or into a dedicated or intentional group. When that happens, good things can result. Same right back at you.
@antiaall3s Ahh yes! I agree, there can be the illusion of popularity on social media; I know folks who feel really isolated in the pandemic questioning themselves because all their Facebook "friends" are seemingly having a great time in cafes, restaurants, bars, and things, and yet meanwhile on here there are like-minded people staying true to science and principles, and that can be very helpful. We often "become the company we keep."
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