Introduction
The Vatican, not typically a prominent player in the global discussion on artificial intelligence (AI), might see its role change with Pope Leon XIV’s election. In his first address to the Cardinal College, the new pontiff linked the Church’s social doctrine with AI challenges, signaling the Vatican’s intent to position itself as an ethical actor in emerging technology conversations.
Pope Leon XIV’s Background and Connection to Social Doctrine
Pope Leon XIV, chosen after the passing of Francisco, is seen as a spiritual successor to Leon XIII, author of the foundational Rerum novarum (1891) encyclical, which established the Church’s social doctrine.
“As I feel called to continue this path, I decided to take the name León XIV… The Church offers all its social doctrine heritage to address another industrial revolution and the developments in artificial intelligence, which bring new challenges in defending human dignity, justice, and work,” Pope Leon XIV stated before the Cardinal College.
Leon XIII’s Rerum novarum addressed the effects of the Industrial Revolution, advocating for economic development that respects workers’ dignity. He denounced exploitation, inequality, and the lack of structures protecting workers from “the inhumanity of employers and the unrestrained greed of competitors.”
Pope Leon XIV’s suggestion implies that AI could potentially reproduce or exacerbate these tensions. Although he didn’t mention specific examples, the implicit reference to AI systems impacting employment, surveillance, and algorithmic decision-making reflects growing concerns: how to ensure these tools serve the common good without exacerbating exclusion?
Vatican’s Stance on AI Ethics
By connecting AI development with the social doctrine tradition, Pope Leon XIV symbolically acknowledges AI as a turning point. The Vatican recognizes that the AI debate extends beyond technical or economic realms; it’s also an ethical matter.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Pope Leon XIV? Pope Leon XIV, elected after the passing of Francisco, is seen as a spiritual successor to Leon XIII, known for the foundational Rerum novarum (1891) encyclical establishing the Church’s social doctrine.
- Why is Pope Leon XIV’s stance on AI significant? His address to the Cardinal College links the Church’s social doctrine with AI challenges, positioning the Vatican as an ethical actor in emerging technology conversations.
- What concerns does Pope Leon XIV express about AI? He implies that AI could reproduce or worsen issues like worker exploitation and inequality, emphasizing the need for AI tools to serve the common good.
- What does Pope Leon XIV’s stance signify for the AI debate? It underscores that the AI discussion must encompass ethical considerations, extending beyond technical or economic realms.
