Parsha Related Enquirer Inquiry

Sophie Satloff asks:

Hi,

I was wondering if you are allowed to say lashon hara about non-jews (according to halacha)? 

Thanks

Great, interesting and timely question, as we prepare to read all about צרעת in פרשיות תזריע ומצורע.  While speaking lashon hara about a non-Jew is not specifically prohibited, it is not a good idea to make habit of it.  The Midrash (Devarim 6:9) specifically says that there is a danger of speaking lashon hara, even about those whom there is no real prohibition, as you will ultimately come to do so about others.  The Rambam too invokes the slippery slope to explain how lashon hara will ultimately lead to speak ill of tzadikim and ultimately rebel against Hashem.  The point is that the action of gossip and slander, no matter who the target is, turns the speaker into a negative person - someone who is accustomed to finding the worst in anyone or anything.  This is a risk even with people we don't even know.  If we fill our conversation with the sordid details of the lives of celebrities, or even with constant (and maybe even legitimate) criticizm of our political leaders, we run the risk of altering our perspective in ways that have other important implications.

Yasher koach & good Shabbos.