The article by R. I. M. Dunbar explores the evolutionary origins and functions of gossip in human society. Gossip, which primarily involves social topics, is a fundamental aspect of human interaction and is essential for maintaining and bonding social groups. Dunbar traces the origins of gossip to social grooming among primates, which evolved as a mechanism for bonding large social groups. Language, which allows for the exchange of information about social networks, became a crucial tool for managing these groups, particularly in controlling free riders— individuals who benefit from social interactions without contributing equally. Dunbar argues that gossip serves multiple functions, including social bonding, information exchange, policing free riders, and self-advertising. While gossip has acquired a negative reputation due to its potential for maliciousness, its primary role is to facilitate social cohesion and cooperation. The article also discusses the cognitive underpinnings of gossip, highlighting the importance of social cognition, such as theory of mind, in understanding and managing social relationships. In conclusion, Dunbar emphasizes that gossip, in its broad sense, is a central component of human sociality and that the cognitive demands of gossip are what drove the evolution of large brains in humans.The article by R. I. M. Dunbar explores the evolutionary origins and functions of gossip in human society. Gossip, which primarily involves social topics, is a fundamental aspect of human interaction and is essential for maintaining and bonding social groups. Dunbar traces the origins of gossip to social grooming among primates, which evolved as a mechanism for bonding large social groups. Language, which allows for the exchange of information about social networks, became a crucial tool for managing these groups, particularly in controlling free riders— individuals who benefit from social interactions without contributing equally. Dunbar argues that gossip serves multiple functions, including social bonding, information exchange, policing free riders, and self-advertising. While gossip has acquired a negative reputation due to its potential for maliciousness, its primary role is to facilitate social cohesion and cooperation. The article also discusses the cognitive underpinnings of gossip, highlighting the importance of social cognition, such as theory of mind, in understanding and managing social relationships. In conclusion, Dunbar emphasizes that gossip, in its broad sense, is a central component of human sociality and that the cognitive demands of gossip are what drove the evolution of large brains in humans.