Pope calls for disarmament of artificial intelligence to prevent harm

Vatican Issues Encyclical on Artificial Intelligence

Pope Leo XIV has released his first encyclical, “Magnifica Humanitas,” which addresses the growing concerns surrounding artificial intelligence (AI). The document, presented at the Vatican, calls for a more active role in regulating AI development and use. According to the Pope, ownership of AI data should not be solely held by private entities.

The encyclical emphasizes the need for policymakers to protect workers’ rights and ensure children’s safety from AI technology. It also urges a reduction in competition among AI companies and advocates for robust legal frameworks, independent oversight, and informed users. The Pope believes that AI must be “disarmed” from its potential for domination, exclusion, and death.

AI experts, including Christopher Olah, co-founder of Anthropic, were present at the presentation. Olah noted that AI companies often operate within incentives and constraints that may conflict with doing what is right. He welcomed input from outside actors like the Catholic Church to guide the development of AI in a more positive direction.

The encyclical also addresses concerns over job losses, ensuring AI benefits are shared globally, and interpreting complex system behavior. Additionally, Pope Leo has expressed opposition to entrusting lethal decisions to technology. The document is part of the Pope’s efforts to address the moral implications of AI development.

The Vatican has released a nearly 43,000-word encyclical, which has been in preparation since Pope Leo’s election over a year ago.

Source: Al Jazeera