Additional Coverage:
New American Pope Cautions Against AI Risks, Citing Social Justice Legacy
In his inaugural address, Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, delivered a potent message to the College of Cardinals, highlighting the potential threats of artificial intelligence to human dignity. Speaking at the New Synod Hall on Saturday, the Pope urged the Catholic Church to confront these challenges with moral fortitude and decisive action.
Drawing parallels between the rapid advancements in AI and the 19th-century industrial revolution, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the Church’s historical role in advocating for workers’ rights and social justice. He invoked the legacy of Pope Leo XIII and his groundbreaking encyclical Rerum Novarum, which addressed the social issues arising from industrialization. The new Pope affirmed the Church’s commitment to applying its social teachings to the contemporary challenges posed by AI.
Formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, Pope Leo XIV brings a diverse background to the papacy. A former missionary and head of the Dicastery for Bishops, he is multilingual and was widely considered a unifying figure following the death of Pope Francis. His choice of the papal name “Leo” signifies a commitment to social justice, echoing the focus of his namesake.
Building upon the Vatican’s expanded digital outreach under Pope Francis, including the “Rome Call for AI Ethics,” Pope Leo XIV stressed the importance of prioritizing human well-being over profit in the development and implementation of AI. He described AI as a transformative force with the potential to reshape labor, society, and even self-perception.
The Pope underscored the importance of faith and prayer in navigating the complexities of the digital age. He encouraged a focus on quiet reflection and discernment, drawing from scripture to emphasize the subtle ways in which God communicates.
Reflecting on the passing of Pope Francis, Pope Leo XIV acknowledged the transition as a moment of both grief and grace. He expressed gratitude for his predecessor’s service and reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to the path forged by the Second Vatican Council, emphasizing the values of dialogue, compassion for the poor, and a courageous approach to the future. He called for a Church grounded in tradition yet prepared to engage with the evolving technological landscape, particularly as it impacts human identity.