Peter Thiel, Palantir co-founder and prominent tech investor, has controversially linked AI regulation to biblical prophecy about the Antichrist, sparking debate during a recent public lecture.
The event, held at San Francisco’s Commonwealth Club, explored the theology, history, and literature surrounding the biblical Antichrist. Thiel suggested that efforts to regulate artificial intelligence could expedite the rise of a totalitarian regime often associated with the Antichrist figure, leading society into a state of stagnation.
This provocative framing ties fears of emerging technology directly to a religious and apocalyptic narrative, heightening public anxieties over AI governance. Critics argue that Thiel’s views oversimplify complex technological and ethical debates, while others point to his known contrarian role in tech and politics that challenges conventional expectations of venture capitalists.
The lecture attracted a diverse and intense audience, including activists and self-identified Satanists. A protest organized by the Bay Resistance group took place outside the venue, condemning Palantir for its involvement in surveillance operations, immigrant detention facilitation, and alleged human rights issues. Flyers from the protest accused Palantir of enabling:
- Mass public surveillance
- Violent ICE immigrant kidnappings
- Union suppression
- Military targeting in Gaza
These concerns stem from established reporting on Palantir’s contracts with government agencies. For example, Bloomberg has documented Palantir’s software being used by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to assist in targeting operations in Gaza. Moreover, Wired reported that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) contracts Palantir to develop real-time tracking tools designed to monitor and locate undocumented immigrants.
Inside the event, reactions ranged widely. Some attendees found the lecture repetitive, hoping future talks would introduce more dynamic content. An unusual presence was a group of Satanists, openly referencing Anton LaVey’s “Satanic Bible” and speculating that Thiel himself might be the Antichrist they have anticipated.
One self-described member of this group, who painted an upside-down cross on her forehead, said, “We’ve been looking for a messiah to bring in the end times. We believe Peter Thiel is the Antichrist we’re looking for.” This statement illustrates the captivating and polarizing impact of Thiel’s rhetoric linking technology and apocalyptic themes.
Observers noted that Thiel challenges stereotypical images of tech venture capitalists by combining ideological, religious, and technological discourses. His role remains contentious and influential, as his views touch on deep societal fears and ongoing policy debates about AI ethics and control.
Whether or not his framing gains traction, Thiel’s remarks underscore the increasingly complex intersection of technology, politics, and belief systems shaping public discourse in 2025.
Emily Shugerman and Garrett Leahy contributed reporting.