Meta discussed ‘whisper strategy’ against social media critic Jonathan Haidt, files show
Summary
Court documents show that Meta employees discussed ways to undermine social psychologist Jonathan Haidt and encourage academics to disavow his work. The notes refer to a quiet campaign and a possible critical article, but it is unclear whether Meta acted on the ideas.Key Facts
- The notes appeared in a U.S. court filing in litigation brought by school districts against Meta.
- A document titled “Well-being Meeting Sound-check Notes” refers to a “whisper strategy” and discusses turning academics against Haidt.
- Minutes from a March 8, 2023, meeting describe a goal of making Haidt appear less credible to the media.
- The notes suggest asking someone identified as “Gellman” to write a critical article.
- Andrew Gelman, a Columbia University professor, said he was never hired by Facebook to target Haidt.
- Gelman said he had received money from Mark Zuckerberg’s company in the past, with no conditions attached.
- Haidt’s 2024 book, The Anxious Generation, argues that widespread smartphone use has caused a mental health crisis among young people.
- The documents do not establish whether Meta carried out the ideas discussed.
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