Schadenfreude Revisited

Really, Marie Claire? You too!

While reading an article about schadenfreude in the January issue, I came upon this:

"Who doesn't break into a smile when condescending would-be lifestyle guru Gwyneth Paltrow's perfect marriage is reported to be on the rocks... ?"

We don't -- that's who! (We'll refrain from mentioning the celeb slip-ups that we do enjoy.)

Even Gwyneth herself admitted to a case of schadenfreude-itis in a past GOOP newsletter:

"I tried to take the high road. But one day I heard that something unfortunate and humiliating had happened to this person. And my reaction was deep relief and… happiness. There went the high road."

(At the time, there was lots of speculation that the alleged "frenemy" was Winona.)

So "why do people become energized when they say or read something negative about someone else?," G.P. asks. Take a look back at what some wise folks had to say.