Elon Musk has surprised many by suggesting that artificial intelligence could be used to boost global birth rates rather than reduce them. In a post on X, he wrote that AI will inevitably have a powerful effect on the human limbic system, which governs emotions and motivation. But instead of this leading to social decline, he argued that the technology could actually increase the birth rate, adding that developers would ensure it happens by design.
His comments came shortly after xAI, his artificial intelligence venture, introduced new companion personalities. Among them is Ani, a Japanese waifu-style character, and Valentin, a moody, introspective figure. The launch of such emotionally responsive AIs has already sparked debate about whether digital partners could replace or diminish human-to-human relationships, worsening the global trend of falling fertility rates. Musk, however, insists AI can be steered in the opposite direction.
The billionaire has frequently warned about population collapse, often pointing to demographic data showing declining fertility in advanced economies. He also refers to his own large family – 14 children – as his personal contribution to tackling the issue. His latest remarks suggest that AI could be intentionally shaped to encourage family life, though he has not specified what mechanisms would be used.
