Citing Gandalf, Pope Leo says we must "disarm" AI (arstechnica.com)

Pope Leo XIV has issued his first encyclical, “Magnifica Humanitas” (“Magnificent Humanity”), emphasizing the need to “disarm” artificial intelligence for the common good. The encyclical, co-authored with Anthropic's co-founder, critiques the potential dangers of AI, particularly autonomous weapons and data exploitation, while calling for a shift in how technology intersects with humanity. Leo stresses that current AI frameworks should not serve as tools of domination but must instead be harnessed to uplift society, warning against the tendency of technological elites to dominate like colonial powers. In a significant update to Catholic social teaching, Leo advocates for the creation of a "civilization of love," where technology serves humanity rather than subjugates it. He draws parallels to the foundational encyclical "Rerum Novarum," which addressed workers' rights during economic upheaval, framing today's technological advancements as a similar societal challenge. This encyclical aims to inspire collective action towards a future where technological progress aligns with ethical stewardship and the welfare of all, marking a profound moment for the AI/ML community to reconsider the implications of their innovations.