P.R.O.J.E.C.T.

I am using this space to think through my project proposal... posts on readings will come later this evening :)
I am interested in gossip as it fits into, opposes, or influences society. I am concerned specifically with women's gossip in the United States (this may broaden depending on available sources). Can groups of women decide what is morally right or wrong by the stories that they tell? If so, has gossip influenced social movements in the past and will it influence cultural tastes today?

A brief look at moral theory. How do we determine right from wrong? One theory is through experience, and if not experience than by stories. Stories are the next most effective way to learn since we cannot experience EVERYTHING. We can make general rules and apply to our specific situation.

A look at past and present
tabboos for women. Most likely citing enthographical research here.

I hope to conclude that indeed, in the United States, women have created their own sense of morality by telling and listening to stories. Gossip has given them a "safeplace" for communicating their own needs and desires, a place to formulate the "limits of normality," and the results have been cultural change.

I hope to also prove that cultural change resulting from women's gossip is an opposing force to a system of morality that has been dominated by men. WHile the gossip forum may be reactionary (created because of the restrictions on speech made by men), it is still a strong force of oppostition.
THis part may get sticky so I'll not concentrate my efforts here, this may be given only as proof for gossip as a necessity to women.


Please offer any feedback you may have. Thanks!!!!
P.S.
I do have sources in mind and will gladly take other suggestions (so this will not be my claim alone).