The Pope has raised concerns about the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI), warning of a potential future plagued by perpetual warfare. This viewpoint may escalate tensions with Donald Trump, who has been advocating for less regulation in the AI sector.
In a recent manifesto titled “Magnifica Humanitas” (Magnificent Humanity), Pope Leo XIV called for stringent government oversight of AI development, cautioning against the dangers of misinformation and conflict escalation. He emphasized the need to prevent AI systems from making irreversible lethal decisions.
Leo highlighted the necessity for proactive political intervention to moderate the rapid pace of technological progress, especially in a world where advancements outpace ethical considerations. His message, directed at the 1.4 billion members of the Catholic Church, underscored the importance of slowing down the relentless march of technology.
The Pope’s strong stance on AI regulation has intensified his ongoing clash with US President Donald Trump. This discord stems from the Pope’s criticism of US foreign policies, particularly concerning military actions in the Middle East, notably the conflict with Iran.
Leo condemned Trump’s aggressive rhetoric towards Iran, denouncing threats to destroy civilization and highlighting violations of international law. He called upon global citizens to pressure their leaders to end the ongoing conflicts in the region.
In a separate incident, Trump faced backlash for sharing an AI-generated image portraying himself in a messianic role, healing a sick individual. This move sparked criticism from various quarters, including some of Trump’s own supporters.
Leo’s manifesto not only focused on AI but also decried the prevalence of brutal wars worldwide, the erosion of democratic values, and the role of the arms industry in perpetuating conflicts. He criticized the notion of a “just war,” advocating for a shift away from using force and violence to resolve disputes.
Furthermore, the Pope emphasized the importance of protecting workers’ rights in the technology sector, highlighting the exploitation of laborers, including children and adolescents, in the production of devices essential for AI development. Leo acknowledged historical shortcomings of the Catholic Church, such as delayed condemnation of transatlantic slavery, and issued a personal apology for these oversights.
Leo’s call to action resonated with his predecessor’s advocacy for labor rights during the Industrial Revolution, urging policymakers to address modern forms of exploitation and ensure ethical practices in technology production.
