Why AI Chatbots Are a Rival to the Family (with Michael Toscano)
Published: May 26, 2026
Duration: 1:13:43
Michael Toscano is a Senior Fellow at the Institute for Family Studies and Director of its Family First Technology Initiative. He joins the podcast to discuss family-centered AI policy. The conversation covers AI companions, self-harm risks, sexualized chatbots, education, smartphones in schools, and why "infinite patience" can harm children's growth. Toscano also explains Catholic social teaching, public pushback against rapid AI deployment, and why society-wide governance may be needed to keep technology accountable to families.
LINKS:
Michael Toscano
CHAPTERS:
(00:00) Episode Preview
(01:12) Family centered AI
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