What Pope Leo XIV’s First Encyclical Says About the Power of AI (www.wired.com)

Pope Leo XIV's inaugural encyclical, *Magnifica Humanitas*, published on May 25, addresses the profound implications of artificial intelligence (AI) within the framework of social ethics and human dignity. It recognizes AI not merely as a technological advancement but as a critical element of the infrastructure shaping modern life. Echoing principles from Pope Leo XIII's *Rerum Novarum*, the encyclical emphasizes that today’s pressing issues—ranging from labor dynamics and the nature of truth to the consolidation of power—are deeply intertwined with digital platforms and algorithms. The Pope advocates for a ‘disarming’ of technology, urging that AI should not result in domination by a few powerful entities but remains accessible and beneficial for society as a whole. Key themes include the risks of technological unemployment, automated surveillance, and the potential for AI to erode human creativity and autonomy in the workplace. The encyclical also warns against relinquishing moral responsibilities to algorithms, particularly in conflict situations where automated decision-making could have dire consequences. This holistic approach encourages a reassessment of how AI influences societal structures and calls for a cultural responsibility to educate citizens on these impacts. Ultimately, *Magnifica Humanitas* presents a vision of a collaborative future where technology serves humanity, emphasizing the need for transparency, equity, and ethical governance in AI development.