In First Encyclical, Pope Leo Warns Against Unrestrained AI in Hands of Mega-Rich Few

In First Encyclical, Pope Leo Warns Against Unrestrained AI in Hands of Mega-Rich Few

In First Encyclical, Pope Leo Warns Against Unrestrained AI in Hands of Mega-Rich Few

https://www.commondreams.org/news/pope-leo-artificial-intelligence

Publish Date: 2026-05-25 10:22:00

Source Domain: www.commondreams.org

  • Pope Leo XIV released a 42,000-word encyclical titled Magnifica Humanitas, calling for government regulation of artificial intelligence (AI).
  • The pope emphasized that AI, if left unregulated, risks increasing the disparity between the powerful few and the many, potentially leading to dehumanization, massive job loss, and environmental degradation.
  • He highlighted the risk that AI could amplify the influence of small, wealthy groups, undermining social justice and democracy.
  • Leo warned against using AI for military purposes, arguing that it can dehumanize conflict and make violence more likely.
  • The pope noted that while technological advancements, including AI, can benefit humanity, they should be oriented towards the common good to avoid harmful consequences.
  • The encyclical concluded by posing critical questions about the direction of technology and its alignment with human goals and communal welfare.