The Gossip Gene

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Published by Rachelle Disbennett-Lee
Monday, July 15, 2002
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On the Discovery channel there is a show about DNA and the various genes that have been discovered. Researchers believe that they have found what they call the "Gossip" gene. This gene is what makes people gossip and they believe that it is related to a survival instinct. Passing along information is how our ancestors knew what was safe to eat, where to forage for food and the best spots for finding fresh water. Faith Popcorn refers to gossip as cross-pollination." We are cross-pollinating when we let others know about the new drug store, who is hiring and who is the best hairdresser.

Gossip gets a bad rap because it is mostly associated with talking bad about others. Actually, anytime we pass along information it could be considered gossip. Gossip has its place and now it looks like it has its own gene. Passing along information isn't a bad thing; it can be helpful and save us time and frustration trying to discover the same information on our own.

Coaching

Even though I have been told that gossip is bad, I figured out long ago that it is simply a way that humans pass along information. Letting others know what is going on in our lives, who is the best lawyer in town or what drycleaner to avoid is gossip and it is helpful.

Gossip and character assassination are two different things. My rule about talking about other people is if I would not say it to their face, I will not say it behind their back. I will even ask if I can tell others what I am being told, such as a job promotion, announcement of a pregnancy, or some other good news. I want to make sure I am not stealing another person's chance to spread good news themselves, so if someone asks me about someone I will know what I can and cannot tell them. I also use good judgment and only tell good things I know about someone. I believe no one really needs help spreading bad news.

How is your gossip gene?

Daily Success Formula

Gossip = Cross Pollination

Quotes

"The only time people dislike gossip is when you gossip about them." Will Rogers

"Gossip is when you hear something you like about someone you don't." Earl Wilson

"Gossip is the art of saying nothing in a way that leaves practically nothing unsaid." Walter Winchell

"Gossip is nature's telephone." Sholom Aleichem