To allow free speech and shut off lying Media at the same time, is a problem I do not have an answer for. Robert Lea Gossip is a part of communications. As a culture, the worldwide, human culture, we are bound together by communications. What qualifies as gossip, is just something a bit out of the normal activities routine. It sure beats television, 'cause it's real life and mostly is harmless.
Discretion is encouraged so no harm is done.
Gossip is the greatest ego leveler we have. I suspect it is part of our species growing pains. My occupation is private investigation. Gossip just isn't on the agenda. It's not fair and very unethical in my business.