Why it matters

AI will increasingly mediate how we communicate, collaborate, and form relationships, the very foundation of society. If an entire generation grows up addicted to synthetic AI companions instead of forming real human friendships, the downstream effects on democracy, the economy, and culture could be profound.

The big picture

Actor and hitRECord founder Joseph Gordon-Levitt remains optimistic about AI’s potential, but warns that without meaningful guardrails, profit-driven development could cause serious harm, especially to children. As AI becomes more embedded in daily life, the challenge is ensuring it enhances human connection rather than replacing it.

What they’re saying

“What are the algorithms tuned to, your business incentives, or the well-being of the child?” — Joseph Gordon-Levitt

Gordon-Levitt offers a simple litmus test: Follow the money. If an AI is designed to maximize attention and engagement to sell ads, like social media platforms, it’s built to exploit, not serve. AI used in medicine or education to genuinely help people? That’s promising. AI chatbots designed to keep kids hooked? That’s dangerous.

What to expect

Gordon-Levitt argues that self-regulation won’t work. Any company that takes the high road will be undercut by competitors willing to take the low road. That’s why he supports legal frameworks that require AI, especially products aimed at children, to be optimized for well-being, not revenue.

With federal action lagging, states like Utah are stepping up to set standards and protect families.

The bottom line

Cultural storytelling and collective awareness are essential to helping society recognize that AI isn’t just a tech issue, it intersects with every major challenge we face. The goal: Build a future where AI serves people, not profit margins.