The Catholic Church has recently issued strong guidance on the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing moral responsibility and caution against potential abuses. Led by Pope Francis, the Vatican released this important document on January 28, 2025, the day after International Holocaust Remembrance Day, drawing on historical lessons to stress the significant responsibilities tied to technological advancements.
Titled "Antiqua et Nova (ancient and new): Note on the Relationship Between Artificial Intelligence and Human Intelligence," the document highlights the Church's stance on technological progress as part of God's divine plan. It asserts, "Technological progress is part of God's plan for creation, but people must take responsibility for using technologies like artificial intelligence to help humanity and not harm individuals or groups," reflects the moral framework being proposed.
The document was approved by Pope Francis on January 14, 2025, and co-signed by Cardinals Víctor Manuel Fernández and José Tolentino de Mendonça, who lead the Dicasteries of Doctrine of the Faith and Culture and Education, respectively. According to the Vatican, the Church has been monitoring and raising concerns about the development and potential misuse of artificial intelligence for over 40 years. "Like any product of human creativity, AI can be directed toward positive or negative ends," the document comprehensively elaborates. It urges individuals, developers, and governments to work diligently to uphold the dignity of every human being when engaging with and deploying AI technologies.
Integral to the Vatican's message is the emphasis on the distinct nature of human intelligence versus artificial intelligence, as the document clearly states, "A proper understand of human intelligence cannot be reduced to the mere acquisition of facts or the ability to perform specific tasks." The Church recognizes the warm and complex nature of human thought, containing empathy and moral decision-making, actions which are characteristics machines cannot replicate. This distinction underpins the Vatican's assertion of moral responsibility: "It is important...that ultimate responsibility for decisions made using AI rests with the human decision-makers and... there is accountability for the use of AI at each stage of the decision-making process," the principles dictate.
AI technologies permeate various domains, shaping how we interact with the world. From apps like ChatGPT and self-driving vehicles to autonomous weapon systems, AI continues to revolutionize our existence. While AI holds immense potential to boost productivity, it also presents significant risks, as the document cautions against societal pitfalls such as discrimination, poverty, and the widening of the digital divide. "Misrepresenting AI as a person should always be avoided... is also to be considered immoral and requires careful oversight to prevent harm, maintain transparency, and...ensure the dignity of all people," the document warns.
Likewise, the Vatican contends the educational sector is not immune to these technology-related shifts. The document emphasizes, "The extensive use of AI in education could lead to the students' increased reliance on technology, eroding their ability to perform some skills independently and worsening their dependence on screens." This raises questions about how education should evolve to integrate AI's advantages without compromising fundamental learning skills.
The consequences of AI's integration extend to labor as well. The Vatican posits, "While AI promises to boost productivity...it frequently forces workers to adapt to the speed and demands of machines rather than machines being aimed to support those who work." This presents challenges for the workforce and calls for both societal and economic adjustments.
Overall, the Vatican's document serves as both cautionary advice and rallying call for individuals and institutions to embrace ethical engagement with AI technology. The Church implores the public to integrate ethical practices, affirming the commitment to uphold the dignity of humanity as we transition increasingly toward reliance on AI. This conversation hopes to spark wider discussions and promote socially beneficial outcomes through the responsible and moral use of technology. Moving forward, the blend of faith and ethical guidance presents compelling reflections on the future of AI and human coexistence.