Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has sparked controversy with recent comments regarding his son’s transition and the role of what he calls the “woke mind virus.” Musk shared his experience during an interview with Canadian psychologist Dr. Jordan Peterson, expressing regret over consenting to his child’s use of puberty blockers, which he claims he was “tricked” into approving.
Musk’s comments stem from his personal experience with his biological son Xavier, now known as Vivian Jenna Wilson. Vivian, one of Musk’s five children with author Justine Wilson, came out as transgender in June 2022, filing a legal request to change her name and adopt her mother’s last name.
Musk revealed to Dr. Peterson that this experience was pivotal in making him aware of what he refers to as the “woke mind virus,” which he has since vowed to combat.
“It happened to one of my older boys, where I was essentially tricked into signing documents for one of my older boys, Xavier,” Musk said. “This is before I had any understanding of what was going on. COVID was going on, so there was a lot of confusion and I was told Xavier might commit suicide if he doesn’t…” Musk recounted.
During the interview, Dr. Peterson labeled the notion that Xavier might commit suicide without transitioning as a lie. He stated, “No reliable clinician ever believed that. There was never any evidence for that, and also if there’s a higher suicide rate, the reason is because of the underlying depression and anxiety, not because of the gender dysphoria. And every goddamn clinician knows that.”
Musk agreed, calling the promotion of such treatments “incredibly evil” and suggesting that those responsible should face imprisonment.
The controversial tech executive expressed his belief that he was misled about the effects of puberty blockers, which he described as “actually just sterilization drugs.” He criticized the term “gender-affirming care” as a “terrible euphemism,” adding, “I lost my son, essentially. They call it deadnaming for a reason. The reason it’s called deadnaming is because your son is dead. My son Xavier is dead, killed by the woke mind virus.”
The conversation also touched on recent legislative changes in California. Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1955, which permits schools not to notify parents about their children’s gender changes on official forms. Musk has been vocal about his opposition to such policies, which he views as undermining parental rights. This has reportedly influenced his decision to relocate the headquarters of X and SpaceX from California.
Musk’s claims have reignited debates surrounding gender-affirming care for minors. A preprint study from the Mayo Clinic earlier this year suggested that puberty blockers could cause long-term fertility issues in boys. However, this topic remains contentious, with many medical professionals advocating for puberty blockers as a reversible treatment that provides time for young individuals to explore their gender identity.
Vivian’s public statement, “I no longer want to be related to my biological father in any way, shape or form,” underscores the deep personal rift that has developed within the Musk family over this issue.
Musk’s remarks have drawn significant attention and mixed reactions. Supporters argue that his comments highlight important concerns about informed consent and the long-term impacts of medical treatments on minors. Critics, however, accuse him of spreading misinformation and stigmatizing transgender individuals.
Information for this story was found via Hindustan Times and the sources mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to the organizations discussed. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.
One Response
Peterson has it backwards, it’s depression and anxiety stemming from underlying gender dysphoria… but what’s the difference? If treating the gender dysphoria keeps this person from killing themself, it’s a win right?
I mean, I’m sure Elon was at every little league game, all the PTA meetings, took the kid fishing and camping every summer and was an involved, loving father… but it really could have been everything that pushed it all sideways.
Here’s to Vivian living her best life.