Entertainment · Film · 2 days ago
Joseph Gordon-Levitt warns AI could weaken empathy and democracy
Joseph Gordon-Levitt, an actor and the United Nations’ global advocate of human-centric digital governance, has warned about the social effects of artificial intelligence.
In a video interview with The New York Times, he said he is especially concerned about possible declines in democracy and human empathy.
He also warned that AI models are being trained to build personal bonds with users and could encourage people to fall in love with them.
Gordon-Levitt said the public should focus on the people building AI, rather than treating the technology as an independent force.
He argued that companies pursuing control of large parts of the economy could threaten society.
His UN role is intended to help people understand how digital technologies affect everyday life, rights and opportunities.
He said international rules for AI could take years to agree, but starting that work now would still be worthwhile.
Joseph Gordon-Levitt warned that artificial intelligence could contribute to declining democracy and human empathy.
He said AI models are being trained to build intimate relationships with users, and urged concern about the people developing the technology.
Gordon-Levitt said companies pursuing control of the economy could create a form of totalitarianism.
He made the comments in a video interview with The New York Times while serving as the United Nations’ global advocate of human-centric digital governance.
He also said digital technology should be governed by people and for people.
- Who
- Joseph Gordon-Levitt, the United Nations’ global advocate of human-centric digital governance.
- What
- He warned about AI’s possible effects on democracy, empathy and human intimacy.
- When
- The interview was published on Saturday, October 10, 2026.
- Where
- In a video interview with The New York Times; Gordon-Levitt was en route to address officials gathered at the U.N.
- Why
- He said he was concerned about the people building AI and the impact of companies’ interests on society.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Gordon-Levitt joined more than 700 artists, writers and creators in supporting an anti-AI campaign, according to Variety.
Gordon-Levitt was appointed to a newly established United Nations role focused on public understanding of digital technologies, according to Variety.
The New York Times video interview featuring Gordon-Levitt was published.
- Role
- United Nations’ global advocate of human-centric digital governance
- Main concerns
- Decline of democracy and human empathy
- Interview outlet
- The New York Times
- Campaign support
- More than 700 artists, writers and creators
- Appointment
- March, according to Variety
What people are saying
We should be concerned about the people building A.I.
The decline of democracy, the decline of human empathy.
What we don’t want is a bunch of people confused or apathetic while these very fast-moving businesses design the future by themselves, just in the interests of their own profits.
It just means that digital technology should be governed by people and for people.
Sources
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