Gossip fosters intimacy and even saves lives, but keep it offline

Social media has made it impersonal, and it’s our loss. Though many of us are brought up not to do it, gossiping is actually an essential social function as it cultivates personal connections. Christopher M. Elias, an assistant professor of history, explores how gossip was once a solely intimate act but has now been depersonalised by the internet, increasing its worst elements whilst simultaneously reducing its positive aspects.