Gossip feels juicy because our brains evolved to share stories that signal who’s safe, who’s risky, and how to fit in—social survival 101.
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Early humans who tracked tribe drama avoided danger and found allies. Gossip became an information radar baked into our brains.
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Trading secrets releases oxytocin, building trust fast. Saying “did you hear?” is like offering a mini friendship handshake.
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Negative gossip flags cheaters, bullies, or unsafe mates. Your brain bookmarks the warning to steer clear later.
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Hearing others’ wins and fails lets you calibrate goals and status. Your mind whispers, “am I ahead, or must I level up?”.
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Each shocking detail drops dopamine, the brain’s feel-good ping. That quick high keeps you hooked for the next spicy update.