psst psst ... some gossip here

Gossip is something that nobody admits to like but eveyboy enjoys it. It is ironic that gossip in itself does not stand that high in the eyes of the social standards eventhough it has the tendecy to build strong bond between the individuals. Gossip also acts like a fine filter by weeding out liars and cheaters, by making them social outcasts. Gossip gives us indirect evaluations. It teaches us what is socially acceptable and what is not, so basically it gives us a good idea about how to behave in society. It also determines our standing in the community. The only worse thing than being talked about is not being talked about.

I wonder how the social life would be without the gossip. Without this fine filter of Gossip, it won't be a surprise if the whole community/society fell apart, as we will not have a very good idea about what is good/acceptable and bad/unacceptable. Managers of organizations should encourage some gossip in the office as boss bashing unifies the team and that enhances the overall productivity. If the boss has some good sources in the low ranks of the office, he/she can also learn more about his/her percieved standing in the group.

Some fine pointers on how to make good gossiper as mentioned in the PT Dec 2005: Keep Secrets, Know your audience, Embellish, Never Reveal your Source, Don't rebuff a disclosure. Research Findings: Denser the social network, more honest the people.