The Sewing Circle of Life

Social scientists are talking up the benefits of gossip, arguing that idle chatter serves society in a number of ways. Do your bit for civilization by paying attention to the grapevine. Gossip: it’s a social activity as old as time, uniting human beings around the world. Men do it just as much as women and some statistics claim it accounts for as much as two-thirds of all human communication.

Though often derided as one of humanity’s most shameful modes of interaction, some anthropologists and researchers have uncovered gossip’s good side.

Believe it or not discussing a co-worker’s poor work habits or a family member’s unpleasant attitude doesn’t just provide a much-needed outlet for pent-up frustration—it’s one way we establish acceptable modes of behavior as a group and create enduring bonds.

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