Jordan Bernt Peterson is a Canadian psychologist, author, and media commentator. He gained extensive attention in the late 2010s for his perspectives on cultural and political issues. Often described by others as conservative, Peterson identifies himself as a classical liberal and traditionalist.

Born and raised in Alberta, Peterson acquired two bachelor's degrees—one in political science and another in psychology—from the University of Alberta. He earned a PhD in clinical psychology from McGill University. After conducting research and teaching at Harvard University, he returned to Canada in 1998 to serve as a professor of psychology at the University of Toronto.

In 1999, he published his first book, Maps of Meaning: The Architecture of Belief, which laid the groundwork for many of his subsequent lectures. The book integrates psychology, mythology, religion, literature, philosophy, and neuroscience to analyze systems of belief and meaning.

In 2016, Peterson released a series of YouTube videos criticizing a Canadian law, Bill C-16, arguing that it could result in compelled speech regarding gender pronouns. This stance led to a broad critique of "political correctness" and identity politics, sparking significant media coverage and mixed public reactions.

By 2018, he paused his clinical practice and teaching duties, publishing his second book, 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos, which became a bestseller worldwide. He experienced health challenges related to benzodiazepene dependence in 2019 and 2020.

In 2021, Peterson published his third book, Beyond Order: 12 More Rules for Life, resigned from his university position, and resumed podcasting. In 2022, he was appointed as chancellor of the newly launched Ralston College in Savannah, Georgia, a private, unaccredited liberal arts institution. His lectures and conversations, primarily available on YouTube and podcasts, have accumulated millions of views and plays.