Pope Leo XIV, in his first encyclical, sounds the alarm on AI dangers, calls for disarmament.
Pope Leo XIV has issued a stark warning about the perils of artificial intelligence, urging the global community to exercise caution and take steps to mitigate its risks. “Humanity… is today facing a pivotal choice: either to construct a new Tower of Babel or to build the city in which God and humanity dwell together,” the pope writes in Magnifica Humanitas: On Safeguarding the Human Condition.
The pontiff argues that AI, with its immense power and capabilities, poses a threat to human dignity and well-being. “We must not forget that we are not just creators, but also creatures,” he writes, emphasizing the need for balance and responsibility in the development and use of AI. The pope’s words carry significant weight, given the Vatican’s long-standing commitment to social justice and human rights.
The Catholic Church has a long history of engaging with emerging technologies, from the early days of the printing press to the rise of the internet. In this latest encyclical, Pope Leo XIV calls on governments, corporations, and individuals to work together to establish robust safeguards and regulations for AI development. “We need to disarm this technology, to make sure it serves humanity and not the other way around,” he writes.
What this means:
The pope’s warning is a timely reminder of the need for responsible innovation and the importance of prioritizing human values in the development of AI. As AI becomes increasingly ubiquitous in our lives, we must ensure that it is designed and used in ways that promote the common good and respect human dignity.
The Church’s track record on technology
The Vatican has a mixed record when it comes to technology. On the one hand, the Church has been a vocal advocate for internet access and digital inclusion, recognizing the potential of technology to uplift marginalized communities. On the other hand, the Church has also spoken out against the misuse of technology, including the spread of misinformation and the exploitation of personal data.
What’s at stake
The stakes are high, as AI has the potential to revolutionize countless aspects of our lives, from healthcare to education to the workplace. However, if left unchecked, AI could also exacerbate existing inequalities and undermine human well-being. The pope’s warning serves as a clarion call for policymakers, developers, and individuals to come together and ensure that AI is developed and used in ways that benefit all people, not just a privileged few.
