Pope Leo XIV’s Perspective on AI: Balancing Progress with Humanity

Pope Leo XIV has provided America with an essential perspective on the artificial intelligence debate: the importance of considering the human element. During his return flight to Rome from France, the pope addressed growing concerns about AI’s potential risks. He emphasized that these concerns, raised by experts, should be taken seriously. He also dismissed the notion that such warnings are ‘fake news.’

Earlier, in a speech in Paris, Pope Leo highlighted the need for technological development to serve humans. He warned about dehumanization impoverishing our ideas and relationships. He questioned the impact on humans if judged solely by efficiency and productivity. This perspective resonates with those who are excited about AI’s potential but cautious about its implications.

AI offers promising advancements. It can help speed up work, discover new medications, acquire new skills, and solve previously insurmountable problems. However, the question remains: What impact will this have on us as humans? Pope Leo reminds us to consider the person affected by AI. What will it feel like to be human when AI performs most thinking tasks?

What happens when people turn to machines instead of connecting with friends, family, or spiritual leaders during loneliness or personal struggles? Additionally, as machines increasingly perform tasks, what happens to the dignity associated with work? These aren’t arguments against AI but rather for understanding progress’s true purpose.

Conservatives, in particular, should heed this distinction. Traditionally, conservatives recognize that humans are more than economic units. While markets foster innovation and creativity, they can’t answer fundamental society questions. Neither can technology. AI can make decisions faster, but should machines make every decision?

Pope Leo’s message suggests putting humanity first in technological change. This principle shouldn’t align with any political side. Prioritizing humanity should guide decisions about the country’s future. Before considering AI’s governmental and corporate benefits, we should assess AI’s impact on people. Human values shouldn’t solely be productivity-based measures.

Technology shouldn’t mediate all relationships. Strengthening irreplaceable human connections is crucial. This approach requires confidence, not fear of the future. We should want future generations to benefit from technology while understanding that productivity doesn’t define their worth.

Many meaningful actions, like raising children or caring for elders, are inefficient. These human experiences, like mentoring and listening, aren’t easily quantified but define our humanity. Success shouldn’t just be measured by machine speed, technological earnings, or task elimination. We should ask if people are freer, have purpose, strong families, deeper connections, and opportunities for meaningful lives.

Technology should serve humanity. Pope Leo’s perspective on AI deserves attention for guiding how progress is defined.