but I am a very social person, who because of extenuating circumstances in life hasn't been able to socialize very well until this year. I'm looking for friends.

Then, maybe you shouldn't be "exclusive" with one person yet. It sounds like you want to expand your social circles and be outgoing. That is great but I can understand how that may be intimidating for a SO in a new relationship. Look at it from his perspective, he's got a new, attractive girlfriend and she's trying to "friend" everyone and even FB friending guys she meets at parties. You can confirm YOUR expectations of these friendships to yourself but you may be a bit naive to the expectations/goals of the other party in these new friendships with guys. I feel your BF has every right to be worried by such outgoing behavior with men, although your intentions seem genuine.

One thing to consider is how it makes him appear to peers. When someone's GF is talking with many guys and giving her info to guys in a "friendly" manner and is super "outgoing" it may give the wrong impression regardless of your intent which is embarrassing. The last thing a guy wants all his friends/peers to think is that his GF is actively searching/looking to upgrade.

However, I 100% wholeheartedly disagree with his objections to your appearance. You're SUPPOSED to be looked at by other people, that comes along with being attractive and should only flatter him that he ended up with you! He should be proud when others look at what they can't have!

It seems like both sides need to compromise a bit by him easing up a bit with the insecurity/jealous and you easing up on being so outgoing with other guys.