Pope Leo XIV warns of AI risks in first encyclical

Pope Leo XIV has issued a stark warning about the dangers of artificial intelligence in his first encyclical, calling for stronger regulation of the rapidly advancing technology. The 42,300-word papal letter titled 'Magnifica Humanitas' was presented on Monday at the Vatican and addresses bishops of the Roman Catholic Church worldwide.

In the document, the Pope specifically warns about autonomous weapons systems that he believes have become 'practically beyond any human reach' to control. He calls for the 'disarming' of artificial intelligence and its transformation into more human-friendly technology. 'Humanity—in all its grandeur and woundedness—must never be replaced or surpassed,' the pontiff emphasized in his declaration.

The encyclical represents a significant intervention by the head of the Catholic Church into the global debate about artificial intelligence. Leo XIV expresses concern about what he terms 'new forms of slavery' and warns about the acceleration of warfare through AI technologies. The Pope stresses that the main challenge in dealing with AI's power is to remain 'profoundly human.'

Notably, the encyclical's presentation was conducted alongside Chris Olah from AI company Anthropic. This collaboration underscores the Vatican's efforts to foster dialogue between AI researchers and broader society. The inclusion of a leading AI expert in presenting the papal document signals a desire for constructive exchange between religious and scientific perspectives.

Encyclicals are traditional papal teaching letters that address important social and moral questions. That Leo XIV has dedicated his first encyclical since taking office to artificial intelligence underscores the urgency with which the Vatican views this technology. The Church is using a centuries-old form of communication to position itself on one of the most modern technological developments.

The Pope calls for a vigilant approach to AI development and demands robust regulatory measures. His warning about uncontrollable weapons systems fits into a broader international discussion about the military use of AI technologies. Various countries and international organizations are already discussing restrictions on autonomous weapons systems.

The encyclical's release comes at a time when artificial intelligence development is advancing rapidly while societal debates about its implications are intensifying. Tech companies, governments, and civil society are grappling with appropriate regulatory approaches for this powerful technology.

The document marks a powerful foray by the leader of the Roman Catholic Church into debates about the misuse or overuse of artificial intelligence. The Pope's concerns reflect broader anxieties about AI's potential to fundamentally alter human society and the nature of work, warfare, and human relationships.

By presenting the encyclical with an AI researcher, the Vatican appears to be seeking common ground between technological innovation and ethical considerations. This approach suggests the Church is not opposed to AI development per se, but rather seeks to ensure it develops in ways that serve human dignity and wellbeing.

With his comprehensive document, the Vatican positions itself as an important moral voice in the AI debate. The encyclical is likely to influence the attitudes of over one billion Catholics worldwide and could also shape broader societal discussions about responsible artificial intelligence development. The Pope's call for AI to be 'disarmed' and made more human-friendly represents a clear stance that technology should serve humanity rather than replace or diminish it.