Pope Leo XIV has identified artificial intelligence as a major challenge facing humanity, emphasizing the need for the Catholic Church to address its ethical implications. In his first formal audience with the College of Cardinals, Pope Leo XIV highlighted AI's potential impact on human dignity, justice, and labor. He reaffirmed his commitment to continuing the reforms initiated by Pope Francis, focusing on inclusivity, attentiveness to the faithful, and care for the least and rejected.
The Pope's stance on AI ethics is centered around a human-centric approach, prioritizing human dignity and well-being. He supports the need for international agreements and regulations to ensure AI is developed and used ethically, with consideration for human values like compassion, mercy, and morality. This approach is in line with Pope Francis' efforts to promote a more inclusive and equitable world.
Interestingly, Pope Leo XIV revealed that AI influenced his choice of papal name, drawing parallels between the industrial revolution and today's AI surge. He chose his name in honor of Pope Leo XIII, who addressed the social question in the context of the first industrial revolution with his encyclical Rerum Novarum. By doing so, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the Church's role in guiding humanity through the complexities of AI, drawing from its rich social teaching tradition.
As the world grapples with the implications of AI, Pope Leo XIV's message serves as a reminder of the need for a thoughtful and ethical approach to AI development. By prioritizing human values and dignity, the Church aims to promote a more responsible and beneficial use of AI.
