Jonathan Haidt

Jonathan Haidt is the Thomas Cooley Professor of Ethical Leadership at New York University’s Stern School of Business and a prominent social psychologist specializing in moral and political psychology. He is the author of several influential books, including "The Righteous Mind: Why Good People are Divided by Politics and Religion," which explores the psychological foundations of morality, and "The Happiness Hypothesis: Finding Modern Truth in Ancient Wisdom," which examines philosophical insights through a contemporary lens. His collaborative work with Greg Lukianoff, "The Coddling of the American Mind," investigates societal shifts affecting younger generations, a theme further expanded in his latest book, "The Anxious Generation."

Haidt earned his PhD in social psychology from the University of Pennsylvania and has held academic positions at the University of Virginia and NYU. His research pioneered Moral Foundations Theory, analyzing how cultural and emotional factors shape moral reasoning. Recognized globally for his contributions, he has been named among the "top world thinkers" by Prospect magazine and the "top global thinkers" by Foreign Policy. Haidt co-founded Heterodox Academy, advocating for intellectual diversity in academia, and his TED talks and platforms like CivilPolitics.org promote constructive dialogue across ideological divides. His work bridges psychological research with broader societal challenges, offering nuanced perspectives on polarization and well-being.