As AI technologies continue to advance at unprecedented speeds, Pope Leo XIV took the opportunity to issue a warning on the subject.
“I’m sure we’re all concerned about children and young people, and the possible consequences of AI use on their intellectual and neurological development,” he said.
“Our young people must be helped—not hindered—on their journey toward maturity and true responsibility,” the pontiff added, emphasizing that they “are our hope for the future.”
“The well-being of society depends on its ability to develop the gifts and talents that God has given it. In the end, authentic wisdom is more about recognizing the true meaning of life than the availability of data.”
He added that while AI is “undoubtedly an exceptional product of human genius,” it is “above all, a tool.”
Leo XIV, the first American pope, chose his name in honor of Pope Leo XIII. He explained that his predecessor had to deal with many technological changes at the beginning of the 20th century—just as he will have to deal with the advances in AI and robotics during his papacy.
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