Pope Leo has expressed serious concerns regarding the "culture of power" that is propelling the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, emphasizing the necessity for strict ethical guidelines as AI expands its influence across various sectors, from employment to military conflicts.
In an encyclical that marks a significant moment in his papacy, Leo also offered an apology for the Catholic Church’s historical failure to denounce slavery, which he referred to as "a wound in Christian memory." He highlighted the emergence of "new forms of slavery" that have arisen within the digital economy.
Breaking from past conventions, Leo took the opportunity to personally present this important document during a Vatican event, attended by notable figures like Christopher Olah, co-founder of the AI company Anthropic, currently involved in legal challenges regarding AI ethics with the Trump administration.
Encyclicals serve as one of the highest forms of papal communication, aimed at the Church’s 1.4 billion members, outlining significant societal issues and the Church's stance on them.
The encyclical, titled *Magnifica Humanitas* (Magnificent Humanity), addresses what Leo describes as "a troubling revival of war as an instrument of international politics," pointing out that AI is contributing to the "normalization of warfare." He stressed that the deployment of AI in combat scenarios demands "the most rigorous ethical constraints" to uphold human dignity and the sanctity of life while preventing a competitive arms race in technology.
Leo called for the "disarming" of AI, noting that some autonomous weapon systems have become nearly impossible for humans to control. "Disarming AI means liberating it from a mindset of 'armed' competition," he explained, stressing that this does not entail dismissing technology altogether but rather ensuring it serves humanity, remains accessible, and fosters open discussion and debate.
Cautioning against the concentration of power in digital systems, the pope pointed out that control now lies not with nation-states but rather with major economic and technology players. He warned that when such power is concentrated "in the hands of the few," it often leads to a lack of transparency and increased risks of inequality, dependency, and manipulation.
Olah remarked during the presentation that the evolution of AI cannot rest solely with tech companies and urged for increased oversight involving religious leaders, government, and civil society. He acknowledged the potential for AI to displace a significant amount of human jobs, stressing the moral obligation to support those affected.
Pope Leo reflected on slavery, acknowledging his family's history linked to both enslaved individuals and enslavers. "It is impossible not to feel deep sorrow when reflecting on the immense suffering and humiliation endured by so many, contrasting sharply with their immeasurable dignity," he stated, offering a heartfelt apology on behalf of the Church.
While previous popes have expressed remorse over the role of Christians in the transatlantic slave trade, this is the first time a pope has openly recognized and apologized for the Church's historical complicity in authorizing European sovereigns to enslave "infidels."
The presentation featured contributions from cardinals and theologians such as Anna Rowlands, who emphasized that Leo's encyclical applies Gospel principles to AI-related cultures and warns against the growing power dynamics reshaping work, family life, education, and politics.
The Vatican has actively engaged in discussions surrounding AI for several years, including ongoing dialogues with tech giants like Microsoft and Google. The pope expressed a desire for collaboration with AI developers to ensure responsible technology usage.
Christopher White, the author of *Pope Leo XIV: Inside the Conclave and the Dawn of a New Papacy,* noted that with this document, Leo is firmly positioning the Catholic Church as a participant in the debate around technology. He recognized the pope's humble acknowledgment that the Church does not claim to have all the answers regarding AI regulation, yet he understands the importance of setting guidelines to prevent unchecked technological development.
In response to the encyclical, Christine Allen, CEO of the Catholic aid organization Cafod, highlighted the pope’s emphasis on the "inherent dignity of humankind." She remarked that humans are not merely production tools, but moral beings tasked with making ethical choices. Allen urged for a responsible approach to AI, underscoring that the technology should not exacerbate existing inequalities or suffering.
