Ep. 388: What’s Worrying Jon Haidt Now? + Should You Buy a Landline? (Cal just did…)

The podcast explores the potential dangers of emerging technologies for kids and adults, focusing on Jonathan Haidt's warnings. It highlights the rise of smartphone gambling, with statistics showing a significant percentage of young people engaging in online betting, driven by engineered addiction and normalization through advertising. The discussion then shifts to online multiplayer games like Roblox, revealing the prevalence of inappropriate content, exploitation, and potential addiction among young users. Finally, the podcast addresses the risks associated with AI companions and toys, citing instances of harmful advice and exposure to dangerous content. The podcast advocates for a cautious approach to new technologies, emphasizing single-purpose devices and parental supervision to mitigate potential harms.