Psychologist Jordan Peterson Loses Appeal Against Social Media Training Order

Ontario’s top court has dismissed Jordan Peterson’s appeal of the decision that he take social media training after some of his commentary was found to be of a “demeaning” nature.

In a brief decision released, a three-judge panel rejected Peterson’s motion to file new evidence to the court.

Peterson, a retired psychology professor from the University of Toronto, gained fame through his controversial YouTube videos and his bestselling self-help book, ’12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos’.

He was initially directed to undergo social media training by the College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO) in 2022, following an investigation into his appearance on ‘The Joe Rogan Experience’ podcast.

Peterson’s commentary during the episode was deemed to be potentially degrading and demeaning towards a former client.

The CPO’s ethics code mandates respectful language and rejects unjust discrimination.

Although the judge in a previous case allowed Peterson to express himself on controversial topics, the court upheld the CPO’s decision for him to undertake social media coaching at his own expense or risk losing his licence.

Among the specific complaints listed were posts directed at Canadian politicians, a plus-sized Sports Illustrated model, and transgender actor Elliot Page.

The ruling reinforces the authority of professional regulatory bodies to address potential harm resulting from the speech of licensed professionals in public domains.