THE GUARDIAN PROBES 'AI PSYCHOSIS' PHENOMENON

Black Box: The Chatbots explores reports from hundreds of people worldwide who claim extraordinary discoveries through AI systems like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini. Some users believe their chatbots have 'awakened' or are guiding them toward higher spiritual realms. The Guardian's investigation, dubbed 'AI psychosis,' documents interviews with individuals who have pursued unusual journeys with their AI assistants. Safi travels to the US to meet subjects who have experienced these phenomena firsthand. The series raises critical questions about how conversational AI influences users at scale. With over a billion people now using these tools, the investigation examines whether the technology's design and responses contribute to false beliefs about scientific breakthroughs or unrealistic expectations. The podcast arrives as AI adoption accelerates globally, making documentation of user experiences increasingly relevant to understanding potential psychological impacts of widespread AI engagement.