Chatham House Rule: The Bay Area's Embrace of Silence

From healthcare conferences to AI salons and even dinner parties, the archaic Chatham House Rule—prohibiting attribution of information to speakers or disclosure of attendees' identities—is surging in popularity across the San Francisco Bay Area. Fueled by the tech industry's obsession with secrecy, its widespread use is sparking debate. Proponents argue it fosters candid discussion, particularly on sensitive topics. Critics, however, contend it obscures accountability and weakens the impact and authenticity of speech. The article explores the phenomenon of the Chatham House Rule's prevalence in the Bay Area and its complex implications.