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Pope Leo XIV Warns of AI's Threat to Human Dignity in First Address

The first U.S.-born pontiff draws parallels between artificial intelligence and the Industrial Revolution, pledging Church leadership on labor and justice issues.

Newly elected Pope Leo XIV arrives on the main central loggia balcony of the St Peter's Basilica for the first time, after the cardinals ended the conclave.
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The newly elected Pontiff, Pope Leo XIV is seen for the first time from the Vatican balcony on May 8, 2025 in Vatican City, Vatican.

Overview

  • Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost of Chicago, delivered his first formal address on May 12, 2025, emphasizing the ethical and social challenges posed by artificial intelligence.
  • He likened AI's transformative impact to the Industrial Revolution, calling for renewed focus on defending human dignity, justice, and labor in the face of technological change.
  • The pontiff chose his name in homage to Pope Leo XIII, whose 1891 encyclical 'Rerum Novarum' addressed labor exploitation during the Industrial Revolution and shaped Catholic social teaching.
  • In his speech, he praised Pope Francis's legacy of simplicity and service, signaling continuity with his predecessor's moral leadership and focus on technology ethics.
  • Pope Leo XIV's prior social media activity reveals advocacy for immigration reform, opposition to the death penalty, and critiques of gun legislation, reflecting a broader commitment to social justice.