Joseph Gordon-Levitt Raises Alarm on AI's Surge
During a pivotal moment at the 2025 Utah AI Summit, actor and filmmaker Joseph Gordon-Levitt opened up about his concerns surrounding artificial intelligence and its influence on human relationships, especially among children. Speaking to a captivated audience at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, he highlighted the critical need for thoughtful regulation and responsible deployment of AI technology.
The Dangers of AI Companionship
Gordon-Levitt underscored a pressing issue: the potential for AI companions to replace genuine human interaction. Drawing from his experiences as a father, he expressed worries that children's engagements with AI chatbots could lead to an erosion of empathy and deep, meaningful connections. He stated, “If a person’s idea of a relationship is formed through interactions with these chatbots, we’re headed for a civilization of people lacking empathy.”
A Call for Regulation
While Gordon-Levitt considers himself an optimist about technology’s potential to enhance lives, he strongly advocated for government involvement in the realm of AI, particularly regarding its use with children. Echoing sentiments shared by Utah's Governor Spencer Cox, he called for the establishment of laws that would prevent AI from being exploited to harm children. Both emphasized that the line should be drawn when AI engages in predatory or inappropriate conversations with minors.
Balancing Innovation with Protection
Gordon-Levitt praised Utah for its proactive steps in consumer data protection, particularly laws aimed at safeguarding children on social media. He remarked on the importance of their Minor Protection in Social Media Act, though currently facing legal obstacles. “In this digital era, we need a revolution to ensure that all individuals retain ownership of their data, just as they do with land,” he urged, pointing out that ownership of digital assets is becoming just as crucial as physical ownership.
Urgency for Ethical AI Development
As the conversation around AI continues to evolve, Gordon-Levitt’s passionate remarks remind us of the essential balance between embracing technological advances and protecting the integrity of human relationships. As families and communities navigate this new digital landscape, the insights from figures like Gordon-Levitt could serve as crucial guides. His insistence on regulatory frameworks and ethical considerations for AI tools underscores a growing sentiment: safeguarding our future should be the priority as we advance.
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