Today, Pope Leo XIV delivered an address to technology executives during a two-day meeting of industry leaders in Rome. The Pope urged the Silicon Valley executives in attendance to develop artificial intelligence in accordance with an “ethical criterion” that respects human dignity.
He stated, “AI, especially Generative AI, has opened new horizons on many different levels, including enhancing research in healthcare and scientific discovery, but also raises troubling questions on its possible repercussions on humanity’s openness to truth and beauty, on our distinctive ability to grasp and process reality. “
“Together with its extraordinary potential to benefit the human family, the rapid development of AI, also raises deeper questions concerning the proper use of such technology in generating a more authentically just and human global society.”
“All of us, I am sure, are concerned for children and young people, and the possible consequences of the use of AI on their intellectual and neurological development… Ultimately, the benefits or risks of AI must be evaluated precisely according to this superior ethical criterion,” he concluded.
One major topic at today’s event is AI governance – the challenge of balancing companies’ need to make a profit and meet shareholder expectations without “causing harm in the world”.
The Pope’s speech coincides with Microsoft and Amazon’s recent layoffs, which were triggered by advancements in AI technology.
By CEO NA Editorial Staff
