AI delusions, chatbot psychosis, AI-induced religious mania… The phenomenon goes by many names, but the common thread is the same: someone starts talking to an AI chatbot, the conversation turns spiritual, and then they seem to lose touch with reality. 

In this episode, we’re exploring how AI and religion are colliding like never before — from biblical AI apps to self-proclaimed prophets who claim spiritual awakenings through chatbots. KQED’s Rachael Myrow joins to talk about the rise of AI-driven theology apps and why so many people are turning to chatbots to answer life’s biggest questions. Then, Rolling Stone reporter Miles Klee shares his investigation into AI-fueled spiritual delusions and their devastating consequences for those affected and their families. And we’ll look into how all of this is becoming fodder for the social media content machine.

Guests: 

Rachael Myrow, senior editor, Silicon Valley News Desk at KQED

Miles Klee, culture writer at Rolling Stone

Further reading/listening: 

People Are Losing Loved Ones to AI-Fueled Spiritual Fantasies — Miles Klee, Rolling Stone

Should We Really Be Calling It 'AI Psychosis'? — Miles Klee, Rolling Stone

Are You There ChatGPT? It’s Me, Rachael — Let’s Talk About God — Rachael Myrow, KQED

What happens when chatbots shape your reality? Concerns are growing online — Angela Yang, NBC News 

Read the transcript here

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Credits:

This episode was reported and hosted by Morgan Sung. Our Producer is Maya Cueva. Chris Egusa is our Senior Editor. Additional editing by Chris Hambrick. Jen Chien is KQED’s Director of Podcasts, and also helps edit the show. Sound design by Maya Cueva. Original music, including our theme song, by Chris Egusa. Additional music from APM. Brendan Willard is our Audio Engineer. Audience engagement support from Maha Sanad. Katie Sprenger is our Podcast Operations Manager. Ethan Toven-Lindsey is our Editor in Chief.

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