The Pope on the development of AI. He noticed something important

The Pope emphasized that the development of AI should be carried out with ethics and responsibility in order to avoid a situation in which technology replaces the human ability to make decisions.

Humanity beyond algorithms

This is not Francis’ first statement about AI. During a visit to the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome in November, the pope said: “No algorithm can replace poetry, irony and love.” In his earlier statements, he emphasized the role of humans as the creator of technology, who should be guided not only by efficiency, but above all by the common good.

In his letter this year, Francis broadened this perspective, noting that AI is a tool that should support humans in their responsibilities, and not replace their key decisions.

The Pope noted that the term “artificial intelligence” may be misleading because this technology does not have the ability to choose and take responsibility that humans have.

“This technology makes a technical selection among several possibilities based on well-defined criteria. However, human beings not only choose, but deep in their hearts they are capable of making decisions,” Francis emphasizes.

Technology in the service of humanity

Francis points out that AI should be a tool supporting the development of all humanity, helping to reduce inequalities and supporting integral human development. However, he warns against the temptation to treat this technology as a universal solution to all the problems of the modern world.

“Technological progress that does not improve the lives of all people and instead creates or worsens inequalities and conflicts cannot be called true progress,” the pope noted.

He also pointed out that the growing use of AI requires increased vigilance on the part of governments, international institutions and technology companies. The development of this technology should take place within specific principles that protect human dignity and freedom.

Collective responsibility is a challenge

Francis emphasized the need to build relational intelligence in which every person and institution cooperates for the common good. “There are significant challenges and opportunities when artificial intelligence is placed within a relational intelligence framework in which everyone shares responsibility for the integral well-being of others,” he concluded.

The Vatican and technology – rare but important interventions

Pope Francis’ statements about technology have not been uncommon lately. Experts point out that the Vatican’s position reminds us of the need for an ethical approach to the development of technology, especially at a time when artificial intelligence affects almost every aspect of our lives – from public health to education and the media.

It is currently estimated that Global investments in AI have exceeded USD 500 billion. It is also expected that by 2025, every third job will require knowledge of AI-based systems. In the face of such dynamic progress, the Pope’s call to responsibility and ethics becomes particularly important.