I am 160lbs, 5'8" male. how much coffee would be acceptable to drink without worrying about creating a dependance or addiction?

Really depends: Really depends it you have an addicted personality or trait or a dependence. If you have issues, then best to drink de-caffeinated coffee. If not, then drink in moderation, 2 to 3 cups per day.

Mind ; Body: It's not only the weight/height issue but the way one's brain works. Some folks are more easily addicted than others. Lots of people start their day off w/regular coffee then switch to decaf. Peace and good health.

Caffeine addiction: One can become physiologically habituated to caffeine by drinking only 1-2 cups of coffee per day. You would notice this if you used coffee daily for awhile, and then stopped suddenly. Caffeine withdrawal leads to headache, muscle aches and pains, fatigue, foggy-headed thinking, etc.