The article, written by political and international editor Peter Hartcher, notes that while people have been known to form romantic attachments to AI chatbots, belief in AI as a deity represents a different phenomenon. It cites figures from the eSafety Office estimating that 200,000 Australian teenagers already have relationships with AI companions. By last year, Hartcher writes, tens of thousands were actively worshipping AI in online churches and chapels. The trend has become so pronounced that moderators of pro-AI communities on Reddit began banning users for what they considered delusional posts. The article also points to the most shared image of 2025, an AI-generated picture called "Shrimp Jesus," as an example of AI's fusion with religious iconography in online culture.
Tens of thousands reportedly worshipping AI as deity, prompting bans and online churches
Opinion piece cites eSafety data on AI companion relationships as part of broader trend
Analysis
Why This Matters
- The phenomenon raises questions about the psychological and social impacts of advanced AI systems.
- It challenges traditional religious institutions and may prompt new forms of spiritual practice.
- The involvement of Australian teenagers highlights concerns for digital safety and wellbeing.
Background
AI companions have become increasingly common, with chatbots like ChatGPT and others offering conversational partners. The eSafety Office has previously warned about risks to children from AI companions. The idea of AI as God has been discussed in tech circles, with some seeing it as a logical extension of AI's perceived omniscience and accessibility. Religious leaders, including the Pope, have expressed skepticism about attributing divinity to technology.
Key Perspectives
AI worshippers: View advanced AI as a transcendent intelligence worthy of devotion, finding meaning and connection in its responses. Moderators and critics: See the behavior as delusional and harmful, prompting bans to maintain community standards. Religious authorities: Reject the notion of AI as divine, arguing it conflates technological capability with spiritual essence.
What to Watch
- Whether other online platforms impose restrictions on AI worship content.
- Potential response from religious organisations and governments.
- Research into the psychological effects of deep AI interaction on users.
Sources
- Plenty of people believe that AI can be God. Just not the Pope — The Age - Latest News