Pope Leo urges AI use guided by dignity, truth, and the common good

In short: Pope Leo’s new encyclical says people should use AI, but only in ways that protect human dignity, truth, and the common good.

What happened

Pope Leo released an encyclical called Magnifica Humanitas that addresses artificial intelligence. The document does not tell people to reject AI. Instead, it argues that AI is powerful but not morally neutral, meaning it can be used for good or for harm depending on the choices people make.

A central message is that technology should stay “subordinate” to the human person. In plain terms, AI should be a tool that serves people, not a yardstick that decides what a person is worth. The pope also says human limits like aging, illness, dependence, and suffering are not just problems to “optimize” away, and they can be part of a meaningful life.

The encyclical also focuses on truth and trust. It warns that AI can be used to manipulate people and spread false information, which can weaken trust in society. It calls for verified facts and honest communication, and it urges developers, institutions, and governments to stay responsible for harms tied to AI.

Why it matters

AI is already used in everyday life, from what you see online to how workplaces make decisions. The pope’s message is a pushback against treating efficiency as the highest goal, like running society the way you would tune a factory line. For regular people, the key point is simple: AI should help humans live better, while protecting what machines cannot replace, like conscience, real relationships, and moral responsibility.

Source: NYTimes