As the world waits with bated breath for the Catholic Church’s upcoming encyclical on artificial intelligence, it’s clear that the Vatican has been busy studying the rapidly evolving field. In a series of documents, statements, and discussions, the Church has laid out its thoughts on AI, and the picture that emerges is complex and nuanced. From warnings about the dangers of unchecked technological advancement to calls for responsible innovation, the Vatican’s stance on AI is a fascinating reflection of the Church’s efforts to grapple with the implications of this rapidly changing world.
The Vatican’s fascination with AI began in earnest in 2017, when the Pontifical Academy of Sciences launched a commission to explore the intersection of AI and ethics. The commission’s report, released in 2019, highlighted the potential benefits of AI, including improved healthcare and education, but also warned about the risks of bias and job displacement. The Church has since continued to sound the alarm on the potential dangers of AI, citing concerns about the exploitation of personal data and the erosion of human dignity.
More recently, the Pontifical Council for Culture has weighed in on the topic, emphasizing the need for a more human-centered approach to AI development. In a statement, the council called for a “humanism” that prioritizes the dignity and rights of individuals over the pursuit of technological progress. The Vatican’s emphasis on responsible AI development is a welcome reminder that the benefits and risks of this technology are not just technical, but also moral and philosophical.