Court Filings Reveal Meta Considered Strategy to Discredit Academic Critic Jonathan Haidt
Newly released court documents from federal litigation regarding teen safety reveal that Meta employees discussed a 'whisper strategy' intended to turn the academic community against social psychologist Jonathan Haidt. The notes, dated March 2023, suggest Meta sought ways to undermine Haidt’s research linking social media use to rising adolescent depression and anxiety. The internal documents, labeled 'Well-being Meeting Sound-check Notes,' outline potential tactics such as using methodologists to challenge Haidt's work and attempting to have the academic elite disavow him. These discussions occurred as Meta prepared for significant multi-district litigation regarding product safety claims for minors. While it remains unclear if these strategies were fully implemented, the filings highlight Meta's sensitivity to academic influence on public opinion and legal outcomes.
Tickers: $META
Topics: corporate strategy legal discovery social media safety teen mental health