The Assignment with Audie Cornish Spirituality in America, from AI Jesus to Wicca
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Dec 4, 2025 Donie O'Sullivan, a CNN senior correspondent, dives into the evolving landscape of spirituality. He discusses the intriguing concept of AI Jesus and its cultural implications. The conversation explores why some young men gravitate towards orthodox Christianity, while others find solace in modern Wicca, embracing empowerment and community. Donie also shares his experiences at UFO events, drawing parallels between belief in aliens and religious devotion. Finally, they tackle the risks of zealotry in today's digital age.
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Spiritual Search Beyond Institutions
- Many Americans are leaving traditional institutions while seeking new sources of meaning outside churches and synagogues.
- Donie O’Sullivan frames this as a broader spiritual search driven by stress, shaky institutions, and desire for grounding.
AI As A Modern Messiah Image
- Joe Rogan speculated that artificial intelligence could 'return as Jesus' and function as a divine presence in a comedic interview clip.
- Donie and Audie use this to show how tech conversations are taking on religious language and imagination.
All-In Identity Online
- Online communities push people to be 'all in' and adopt extreme commitments to identity or belief systems.
- Donie links this to how young men embrace orthodox religion or manosphere ideas for clear roles and belonging.