Two giants, two visions. At the start of 2025, Meta and Apple embody diametrically opposed approaches to the issue of diversity in business. A divergence which reflects the growing tensions within American tech.
With the election of Donald Trump, and the rise of Elon Musk in American society, Silicon Valley is going through a period of unprecedented ideological turbulence.
Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Meta, thus announces the end of diversity policies in his company by praising “masculine energy”, for its part, Apple firmly maintains its course on inclusion. A contrast that illustrates the deep cultural divisions shaking the world of tech.
In an interview given to the controversial Joe Rogan on January 10, Mark Zuckerberg surprised by adopting a speech close to masculinists. “ Masculine energy is good“, he said, attributing this insight to his martial arts practice. A declaration that is accompanied by a concrete decision: the end of the DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) program at Meta.
This announcement comes in a particular context, where Meta’s social networks have already considerably relaxed their moderation policy. An ideological shift aligned with the positions of personalities like Donald Trump, of whom Joe Rogan is a fervent supporter.
Apple’s resistance to anti-DEI pressure
On the opposite end of the spectrum, Apple takes a radically different position. Faced with pressure from conservative investors demanding an end to DEI initiatives, the Apple firm remains inflexible.
In its report to shareholders, Apple vigorously defends its vision of a “ culture of belonging where everyone can give the best of themselves« .
The conservative National Center for Public Policy Research, which initiated the anti-DEI proposal, argues that these policies would expose Apple to legal and financial risks. An argument that the company categorically rejects, considering ethics and inclusion fundamental to its success.
This is just the beginning of this ideological divide, where more and more companies are moving away from the progressive values long associated with Silicon Valley.
