Pope Leo XIV’s Vision: Navigating the Age of Artificial Intelligence

Pope Leo XIV’s First Remarks on AI Ethics and Human Dignity

Published on May 11, 2025 | Powered by GadgetNewz.com

Introduction
In a first for the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, has taken the throne. Once Robert Francis Prevost, his election is a milestone, not only because of his nationality but because of his progressive thinking regarding the issues of today. At the center of his vision is the ethical and moral handling of artificial intelligence (AI), an issue he has named as one of the most urgent of our time. Embracing the Legacy: The Selection of “Leo XIV”
The selection of name by Pope Leo XIV is a conscious nod to Pope Leo XIII, who is famous for his 1891 encyclical Rerum Novarum that dealt with the rights and conditions of workers during the Industrial Revolution. Making connections between the social revolutions of the 19th century and the modern-day digital revolution, Pope Leo XIV said:

“In our own time, the Church proposes to all her social teaching treasure in response to another industrial revolution and to developments in the artificial intelligence field which present new challenges to the defense of human dignity, justice, and labor.”
— Catholic News Agency

AI: A Contemporary Challenge to Human Dignity
In his first address to the College of Cardinals, Pope Leo XIV highlighted the dual nature of AI—both its potential to improve human capacities and its risks. He cautioned that while AI can enhance human capacities, it also threatens seriously employment, privacy, and even the very definition of human dignity. He stated:

“Artificial intelligence is a mighty force that can transform work, society, and even our self-image. People, not profit, need to be kept at the center.”
— Fox News

This vision is consistent with his dedication to preserving the reforms of the Second Vatican Council and the missionary spirit described by Pope Francis in Evangelii Gaudium.
Source: AP News

Continuity and Reform: Building on Pope Francis’ Legacy
Pope Leo XIV has shown a profound admiration for his predecessor, Pope Francis, vowing to continue his work in reforming the Church and fostering open dialogue. He has summoned the College of Cardinals to repledge their commitment to the revolutionary changes ushered in by the Second Vatican Council, with special emphasis on interfaith dialogue and the use of local languages in Mass.
Source: Reuters

Video Insight: Pope Leo XIV’s Address on AI
In order to better understand Pope Leo XIV’s vision on artificial intelligence, view his address to the College of Cardinals below:

Pope Leo XIV’s Address on Artificial Intelligence
Courtesy: Official Venice Channel on YouTube

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why did Pope Leo XIV adopt his papal name?
A: He named “Leo XIV” after Pope Leo XIII, who had confronted social issues during the Industrial Revolution. Pope Leo XIV views similarity between that time and the current era of digital transformation, especially when it comes to AI affecting society.
Source: Catholic News Agency

Q2: What are Pope Leo XIV’s primary concerns regarding AI?
A: He worries that AI challenges human dignity, justice, and work. He highlights the necessity of the Church to lead ethical concerns in AI development and deployment.
Source: The Independent

Q3: How will Pope Leo XIV tackle issues on AI?
A: He plans to maintain the tradition of social teaching by the Church, offering moral instruction on AI. This involves encouraging policies that will put human well-being ahead of profit and that technological progress won’t undermine human rights.
Source: Catholic News Agency

Q4: Will Pope Leo XIV continue Pope Francis’ reforms?
A: Yes, he has vowed to continue the inclusive mission and reforms that were started by Pope Francis, such as those from the Second Vatican Council, in terms of modernization and interfaith dialogue.
Source: Reuters

Courtesy
Special thanks to:

Catholic News Agency

AP News

Fox News

Reuters

The Independent

Venice Official YouTube Channel

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