we obviously need to learn what we value in a partner and what we'd prefer to pass on. But to claim that there's some sort of magic number? We're not buying it.
First of all, why should there be a negative stigma surrounding having dated more than 12 people? What if you were dating around and had no idea what you wanted? It doesn't necessarily mean you've missed out on your one and only. The same goes for anyone in a loving relationship who has only dated one, two or even zero other people; why upset your couplehood with the question of "should I keep looking?" when you're otherwise happy?
Not to mention that people who tend to settle in or are looking for long-term relationships don't really have time to date 12 different people! That's a lot of people!