Presenting the first encyclical of his pontificate, Pope Leo XIV warned that artificial intelligence must be “disarmed,” urging governments, tech leaders, and society to confront the rapidly growing technology before it weakens human relationships, critical thinking, and peace itself. With its authoritative teaching, the 82-page encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas (“Magnificent Humanity”), significantly boosts the Catholic Church’s position as an active voice in discussions over artificial intelligence, autonomous weapons, labor, human dignity, and the concentration of technological power among a handful of corporations.
The pope said he wrote the encyclical after hearing from scientists, engineers, political leaders, parents, and teachers about the promises and dangers posed by artificial intelligence. While some were enthusiastic about the technology, he said others expressed fears over future generations and increasingly autonomous weapons systems.
“Peace, not merely the absence of war, is justice at work,” Pope Leo said May 25 during a presentation unveiling the document in the Vatican’s Synod Hall to an audience filled with members of the Roman Curia, reporters, and special guests. “But when technology weakens our critical sense, peace itself is at risk.”
Further details can be found here via the USCCB website.