Critics at Large | The New Yorker
Gossip, Then and Now
Apr 3, 2025
Gossip emerges as a captivating and complex topic, revealing its dual nature as both a source of connection and harm. The conversation highlights gossip's historical roots, from biblical tales to its portrayal in modern media, illustrating how perceptions have evolved. With new technologies amplifying the speed of gossip, the ethics surrounding it are increasingly scrutinized, especially in the Me Too context. The discussion sheds light on how celebrities navigate their public personas amid rumors—making privacy a compelling concern in today’s society.
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Quick takeaways
- Gossip serves as a universal human behavior that intertwines enjoyment with moral complexity, affecting relationships across various social contexts.
- The shift to modern platforms has drastically changed how gossip spreads, raising ethical concerns about privacy and public scrutiny in today's society.
Deep dives
The Dynamics of Male Gossip
The discussion highlights the often-overlooked notion that men engage in gossip, particularly in sports and celebrity culture. A prominent example is the tension between sports broadcaster Stephen A. Smith and basketball player LeBron James, which has stirred public interest due to its dramatic narrative. Smith's criticism of LeBron's son, Bronny, ignited a spat that revealed deeper issues of professional rivalry and loyalty. This incident serves as a reminder that male gossip can intensify personal narratives and create public drama, akin to the exchanges typically categorized as female gossip.
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