Could Youth Despair and AI Be Fueling Extremists?

AI, ISIS, and lost opportunities can create a dangerous mix.

McGill University professor Dr. Cécile Rousseau warns that despair, economic uncertainty, online addiction, and extremist recruitment are pushing more young people toward radicalization.

As Canada Research Chair in Preventing Violent Radicalization, Rousseau says extremist groups exploit vulnerable youth through secrecy, isolation, and promises of purpose. She stresses that parents and teachers must respond not with moralizing, but with curiosity and open dialogue.

“The recruitment process in all of these organizations builds on secrecy — ‘don’t talk to your parents, don’t talk to your friends’ — isolating the prey so they become disconnected from all others.”

— Dr. Cécile Rousseau, McGill University

Read more →