E323: Jonathan Haidt

How TikTok Is Damaging Our Children: Jonathan Haidt (E323)

Jonathan Haidt is a renowned social psychologist, bestselling author, and professor, widely known for his groundbreaking work on morality, culture, and human flourishing. His insights into how society shapes us and how we, in turn, shape society, make him a leading voice in discussions about our rapidly evolving world.

In this episode, Jonathan chats with Jake and Damian about the profound effects of social media on the younger generation. He dives into the alarming rise in depression and anxiety among teenagers, explaining how the presence of mobile phones and platforms like TikTok is reshaping childhood and distorting attention spans.

Drawing from his book The Anxious Generation, Jonathan unpacks what’s happening to kids growing up online, from the dangers of fragmented focus to the way social media alters how they perceive the world. He also discusses why it's critical for parents and society to confront these challenges and work towards solutions.

This conversation is a wake-up call and a guide for anyone seeking to understand and navigate the digital age's impact on young people.