Pope Leo to issue first major work, addressing AI, on May 25
Pope Leo to issue first major work, addressing AI, on May 25
Publish Date: 2026-05-18 06:55:00
Source Domain: www.reuters.com
- Pope Leo XIV is set to release an encyclical titled “Magnifica Humanitas” on May 25, focusing on emerging themes such as artificial intelligence and workers’ rights.
- The document is expected to address global conflicts and provide comprehensive guidance on workers’ rights, reflecting the Church’s historical emphasis on social justice.
- Contrary to typical tradition, Pope Leo XIV himself will participate in a presentation of the encyclical, accompanied by Christopher Olah of AI company Anthropic.
- The encyclical carries significant weight as one of the highest forms of papal teachings addressed to the Church’s 1.4 billion members.
- This marks Pope Leo XIV’s first extensive document, often outlining the priorities and moral views of the pontiff towards contemporary social issues.
- The pope has previously expressed concerns over the misuse of AI in warfare, drawing criticism from political figures, including former President Donald Trump.
- The papal document is rooted in the tradition started by Pope Leo XIII’s encyclical on laborers’ rights, underscoring an ongoing theme regarding the protection of workers.
- The timing of the encyclical’s signing coincides with the anniversary of a similar text by Pope Leo XIII advocating for improved labor conditions.