gossip mongerers like to tell a lot of people what is in their pm's. they like to have dirt, it makes them valuable. these are the commoditizational relationships for which the primates are genetically programmed. primates also like to create heirarchies. they will watch for symbols, since we deal stricty in written language here, so they can divide themselves up amongst those of like mind and have wars of words with the other "troupe" if you will. there is a certain amount of mud-slinging, behind-the-scenes attempted diplomatic negotiations (after all, primates are also genetically programmed to "kiss and make up"), strategic back room meetings in which maneuvers are planned and weaknesses noted.
ah yes, but despair not, for we are also tending to share advice, being communal and liking to be of use, having naturally depended on the giving and receiving of information freely amongst persons, groups, bands, clans and so on. we are also inclined to set aside petty differences, or even allow them, while still observing a common enemy, and therefore, a bond.