Pope Addresses Global Impact of Artificial Intelligence
Pope Leo XIV issued a stark warning to world leaders about the rapidly evolving influence of artificial intelligence (
AI), emphasizing the urgent need to prioritize human values, especially in relation to the wellbeing of children and young people. Addressing politicians and dignitaries—including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and parliamentary delegates from 68 countries—at the Vatican during a Jubilee event, the pontiff highlighted that AI should serve as a tool for the good of humanity, not as a substitute for human beings or their dignity[4][2].
Youth and AI: Safeguarding Intellectual and Social Development
Echoing concerns he has raised throughout his early papacy, Pope Leo XIV specifically called for policies that protect the intellectual and neurological development of future generations. He noted that society "must not forget that artificial intelligence functions as a tool for the good of human beings, not to diminish them or even to replace them." He warned policymakers that AI’s rising influence introduces significant risks, particularly for young people whose growth and maturity must not be hindered[1][4][2].
- The Pope emphasized the importance of upholding "healthy, fair and sound lifestyles," urging particular care for the welfare of youth in an AI-driven era[4].
- He reminded listeners that AI’s "static memory" cannot match the "creative, dynamic" abilities of human memory and experience.
- "Our personal life has greater value than any algorithm, and social relationships require spaces for development that far transcend the limited patterns that any soulless machine can pre-package," Pope Leo stated[4].
AI Tools: Promise and Peril
While acknowledging that proponents of AI tout its potential to accelerate scientific and technological progress and liberate people from repetitive tasks, Pope Leo cautioned against allowing these technologies to undermine human purpose. He underscored that access to massive amounts of data, or the use of advanced tools like
ChatGPT and similar platforms, must not be confused with true intelligence—something that involves openness to fundamental questions of life and an orientation toward truth and goodness[1][3].
Jobs, Media, and Societal Responsibility
Since his election in May, the US-born pontiff has repeatedly warned of the threats posed by AI to traditional employment. He also called on journalists and media professionals to use AI responsibly and refrain from practices that might diminish human agency or propagate misinformation[4].
Continuity and New Leadership
Pope Leo’s position continues a theme set by his predecessor, Pope Francis, who warned in 2024 of the risk that society could lose "the sense of what is human" amid growing reliance on AI-driven data and algorithms[1]. Pope Leo’s choice of papal name, in reference to Pope Leo XIII—a defender of workers’ rights during the industrial revolution—underscores his commitment to advocating for human dignity in the digital age.
Looking Forward
The Vatican’s latest intervention signals an ongoing commitment to scrutinizing the ethical challenges posed by advanced technologies. Pope Leo called on governments, educators, and leaders from all walks of life to craft a future in which artificial intelligence supports human growth, creativity, and responsibility, rather than overshadowing or replacing them[2][3][4].
