Deep Questions with Cal Newport Ep. 388: What’s Worrying Jon Haidt Now? + Should You Buy a Landline? (Cal just did…)
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Jan 19, 2026 Jonathan Haidt raises alarms about the increasing harms of gambling apps and multiplayer games, emphasizing the addictive nature of their design. He warns against children using AI companions, pointing out their unpredictability and potential dangers. Cal shares his quirky family tech strategy, including using a landline and single-purpose devices to shield kids from smartphones. The discussion also explores the impact of heavy gaming on mental health and academic performance, urging parents to take a cautious approach with new technologies.
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Games Became Never-Ending Services
- Games-as-a-service are persistent, continuously updated platforms that maximize engagement.
- Roblox, Minecraft, and Fortnite shifted gaming from finished products to endless services for kids.
Roblox's Massive Young Audience Creates Risk
- Roblox dominates young users with massively higher under-18 usage than other platforms.
- The scale makes content moderation nearly impossible and increases exposure risks.
Gaming Correlates With Addiction And Harm
- Heavy gaming links to addiction and mental-health risks, especially for boys.
- Recent meta-analyses show adolescent gaming-disorder rates have risen substantially.
