Dear Reverend,
Every day there’s something in the news about how artificial intelligence is going to be the end of humans. It’s brought on an existential dread in me, and I can’t stop worrying about it. Meanwhile, everyone I know is using it to write emails and make goofy images for social media. When I try to talk about the dangers of AI, I’m told that “it’s just a tool.” Are we living in a sci-fi nightmare, or am I being an alarmist?
Anna Log (woman, 37)
Dear Anna Log,
Humans have been freaked out by technological advances since they learned how to harness the power of fire. In ancient Greece, Socrates argued that the invention of written text would ruin human thought and memory. In the 15th century, the printing press caused a panic. From mechanical looms to mainframe computers, we’ve always been scared that some machine would lead to human obsolescence. But we’re still here.
There are real-world implications of AI that are certainly concerning, such as environmental impact and workforce displacement. But perhaps the most frightening thing is the speed with which it’s developing. And we just have to trust that there are good humans at the helm.
I’ve been leery of AI since the advent of virtual assistants like Alexa. Those have always given me the creeps. I recently watched The AI Doc: Or How I Became an Apocaloptimist, and I highly recommend it for any AI worriers. In it, the expectant father/filmmaker interviews bigwigs on both sides of the AI fence and comes away with some interesting conclusions. I won’t ruin it for you, but by the end, you may feel a little better.
For now, maybe take a break from mainstream media. Sensational headlines, such as robots taking over the planet and destroying humankind, are designed to get attention and can ratchet up your anxiety. If you just can’t pull yourself away, at least remember to think beyond the perils of AI and to the positive possibilities, such as scientific discovery and medical advancements.
Better yet, step away from the screens entirely: Ground yourself in nature or with some old-fashioned hands-on hobbies and human connection.
Good luck and God bless,
The Reverend
This article appears in The Tech Issue • 2026.
