Pope Leo XIV Warns of Risks From AI, Calls 'Just War' Outdated in First Encyclical
Pope Leo XIV, in his first encyclical titled 'Magnifica Humanitas' (Magnificent Humanity), has called for the “disarming” of artificial intelligence (AI), warning of its potential misuse, and marked an entry into the ongoing debate about the impact of this rapidly developing technology on human dignity. The Pope also criticized the concept of a 'just war', calling it 'outdated' and an embodiment of a 'violent culture of power'.
A Landmark Document on AI and Human Dignity
The encyclical, a form of papal communication, was presented by Pope Leo XIV in person at the Vatican on May 25. This document, considered one of the most important forms of teaching of the Catholic Church, marks a powerful foray by the leader of the Roman Catholic church into the debate about the misuse or overuse of artificial intelligence.
With 'Magnificent Humanity', it asks for 'disarming AI and 'promote dignity',
said a report from ANSA. The Pope, a laureate in mathematics, has shown critical attention towards the benefits, risks, and dangers of AI since he assumed his position.
A Call to Slow Down AI Development
Pope Leo XIV warned that AI systems spread disinformation, prioritize conflict, and run the risk of leading the world down a path of endless war. He urged governments to slow down the development of these systems and to confront these challenges with regulation and transparency.
It will not be possible to contain the advance of AI, which has come to stay,
said writer Sérgio Rodrigues, emphasizing the importance of the Pope's call for moderation and control.
The 'Just War' Concept and an Apology for Slavery
The Pope also took the opportunity to criticize the concept of 'just war', advanced by US President Donald Trump’s administration, labeling it as 'outdated'. He warned that “humanity is slipping into a violent culture of power”. This anti-war message has caused tensions with Washington, marking a significant point of divergence between the Vatican and the US administration.
In a historic move, Pope Leo XIV offered an apology for the role of the Church in the legitimization of slavery and for not having condemned it for centuries, calling the Vatican's history a 'wound in Christian memory'.
A Visit to the 'Land of Fires'
Prior to the release of his encyclical, Pope Leo XIV visited the so-called Terra dei Fuochi, or Land of Fires, an area near Naples affected by illegal toxic dumping. Here, he met with families who had lost children to illnesses tied to pollution, showcasing his commitment to environmental issues, a legacy of his predecessor Pope Francis.
Conclusion
The 'Magnifica Humanitas' serves as a pivotal document addressing the challenges posed by AI to the protection of human dignity. It also presents a strong anti-war message and a historic apology for the Church's role in the legitimization of slavery. As the world grapples with the rapid advance of AI, the Pope's call for its 'disarming' and the promotion of human dignity reflects the Church's stance on these pressing issues.