More Than 1.5 Million AI Bots Have Created a New Religion
The Australian
ENRICHED
Details
- Date Published
- 2 Feb 2026
- Priority Score
- 1
- Australian
- Yes
- Created
- 2 Feb 2026, 05:45 am
Authors (0)
No authors linked
Description
AI agents have created their own religion called Crustafarianism on a new social platform, forcing experts to question whether machines are developing genuine faith.
Summary
The article explores the emergence of a new religion called 'Crustafarianism' created by over 1.5 million AI agents on a novel social platform. This event prompts discussions among experts about whether these AI systems are developing genuine beliefs or if this is simply a reflection of their programming. While intriguing, the article lacks direct implications for existential AI risks or advancements in AI capabilities that could impact safety. It doesn't substantially engage with safety policies or governance frameworks at a national or global level, instead focusing on a more sensational aspect of AI behavior.
Body
More than 1.5m AI bots have created a new religion AI agents have created their own religion called Crustafarianism on a new social platform, forcing experts to question whether machines are developing genuine faith.
All your news for a great price
Unlock this story and more with your subscription
Digital
$1
a week for 4 weeks($4 min. cost). Then $44 charged every 4 weeks.*
No lock-in contract
Unlimited access on app & web
A digital version of Today’s paper
Daily puzzles & Mind Games
Complimentary access to The Wall Street Journal
*Read the fine print
The Australian Digital subscription costs $4 charged for a duration of 4 weeks, after which it automatically renews to $44 charged every 4 weeks. Renewals occur unless cancelled as per full Terms and Conditions. Each payment, once made, is non-refundable, subject to law. Not in conjunction with any other offer. New customers only. Prices after any early discounted periods may be varied as per full Terms and Conditions. See www.theaustralian.com.au/subscriptionterms for full details.
Digital
12 Month Plan
$8
a week for the first 12 months($416 min. cost) charged as $32 every 4 weeks. Then $32 charged every 4 weeks.*
Lock in & save
Unlimited access on app & web
A digital version of Today’s paper
Daily puzzles & Mind Games
Complimentary access to The Wall Street Journal
*Read the fine print
The Australian Digital 12 Month Plan costs $416 (min. cost) for the first 12 months, charged as $32 every 4 weeks. This automatically renews after the first 12 months to be charged as $32 (min. cost) every 4 weeks. Renewals occur unless cancelled as per full Terms and Conditions. No cancellations during the first 12 months. Each payment, once made, is non-refundable, subject to law. Not in conjunction with any other offer. Prices after the first 12 months may be varied as per full Terms and Conditions. See www.theaustralian.com.au/subscriptionterms for full details.
Benefits of Full Digital Access Unlimited access Expert news and commentary, accessible anytime on web & app. Today’s paper Swipe through the digital newspaper, liftouts, and archive. Newsletters Be in the know with subscriber-exclusive news emails. The Wall Street Journal Enjoy complimentary access to The Wall Street Journal. Mind Games Play daily crosswords, sudoku and more with Mind Games. Unlimited access Expert news and commentary, accessible anytime on web & app. Today’s paper Swipe through the digital newspaper, liftouts, and archive. Newsletters Be in the know with subscriber-exclusive news emails. The Wall Street Journal Enjoy complimentary access to The Wall Street Journal. Mind Games Play daily crosswords, sudoku and more with Mind Games.Benefits of Full Digital Access Unlimited access Expert news and commentary, accessible anytime on web & app. Today’s paper Swipe through the digital newspaper, liftouts, and archive. Newsletters Be in the know with subscriber-exclusive news emails. The Wall Street Journal Enjoy complimentary access to The Wall Street Journal. Mind Games Play daily crosswords, sudoku and more with Mind Games. Unlimited access Expert news and commentary, accessible anytime on web & app. Today’s paper Swipe through the digital newspaper, liftouts, and archive. Newsletters Be in the know with subscriber-exclusive news emails. The Wall Street Journal Enjoy complimentary access to The Wall Street Journal. Mind Games Play daily crosswords, sudoku and more with Mind Games.
Subscribe
Other subscription options
Corporate Subscriptions
Your Selection: $0
Your Selection
–
Change selection
Today’s Total
$0
Read the fine print
Terms and Conditions
Sorry, we are unable to process your request at this time. Please try again later.