Pope Leo warns of AI fueling warfare in first major theological document

Pope Leo XIV’s Encyclical on AI: A Call for Ethical Governance and Human Dignity

Pope Leo warns of AI fueling – In his inaugural significant theological publication, Pope Leo XIV cautions that artificial intelligence should not be monopolized by a select few, highlighting how technological advancements are intensifying global conflicts. The encyclical, titled “Magnifica Humanitas” (“Magnificent Humanity”), serves as a foundational text for his papacy, addressing not only AI’s role in warfare but also broader existential challenges. Central to the document is the assertion that humanity must safeguard its “distinctive grandeur” amid rapid innovation, ensuring that the use of AI in military contexts is subject to “the most rigorous ethical constraints.”

A New Framework for Warfare

The encyclical challenges the traditional “just war” theory, a Christian framework that has long justified conflict under specific conditions. Pope Leo argues that this doctrine is no longer sufficient, declaring that military force should now be restricted to “self-defense in the strictest sense.” He emphasizes that the consequences of unchecked technological power extend beyond borders, with the deployment of AI in warfare threatening to reshape the very nature of conflict. “The construction of a world in a state of perpetual conflict is an evil and must be named for what it is,” the pope writes, urging a shift toward dialogue, diplomacy, and forgiveness as tools for peace.

“Artificial intelligence already touches many areas of our lives and affects decisions that shape human co-existence,” the pope states, underscoring the pervasive influence of the technology. “I feel entrusted to look upon another huge transformation with eyes of faith, with lucidity of reason, with openness to mystery and with cries of the poor and the earth resounding in my heart.”

The pope’s warnings are rooted in a broader vision for social justice, which he defines as the treatment of migrants and refugees. He extends an apology for the Church’s historical complicity in legitimizing slavery and its delayed condemnation of displacement as a moral failing. “The litmus test for social justice is the way we care for those who are forced to flee their homes,” he explains, linking AI’s potential to exacerbate inequalities with the Church’s role in shaping human rights.

From Tower of Babel to AI Governance

Pope Leo draws a biblical analogy to illustrate the risks of AI dominance. He warns that humanity’s pursuit of a single, all-powerful technology risks constructing a “Tower of Babel,” where people seek to “make a name” for themselves through uniformity and centralized control. This metaphor reflects his concern that AI, if left unregulated, could undermine diversity and dehumanize societies. “The story of Babel serves as a reminder that when power is concentrated in one voice, the risk of division and domination grows,” he writes, advocating for inclusive development of AI that values varied perspectives.

The encyclical outlines a set of guiding principles for AI governance, including equitable resource distribution, the preservation of human dignity, and environmental care. These principles aim to counteract the potential for AI to prioritize efficiency over empathy, ensuring that its benefits are shared broadly. “Humanity possesses far more effective and capable tools for promoting human life and resolving conflicts, such as dialogue, diplomacy and forgiveness,” the pope emphasizes, framing AI as both a challenge and an opportunity for ethical progress.

A Break from Tradition

Pope Leo XIV’s approach diverges from historical norms, as past popes typically presented encyclical letters to cardinals or senior clergy. Instead, he chose to release the 235-page booklet directly to the global audience, signaling a new era of accessibility in Church teachings. The document was unveiled alongside Chris Olah, co-founder of Anthropic, an AI company embroiled in legal disputes with the Trump administration over the use of its technology in military and defense operations. Olah, who has engaged with 15 religious leaders on AI’s implications, acknowledges the pope’s vision: “The technology’s impact goes far beyond scientific questions, touching the soul of society.”

The collaboration between the pope and Olah highlights the Church’s engagement with modern innovation. While Olah’s expertise lies in AI development, the pope’s theological perspective offers a moral compass for its integration into daily life. “AI already touches many areas of our lives and affects decisions that shape human co-existence,” he states, emphasizing the need for both faith and reason to guide its application. The encyclical thus bridges the gap between spiritual doctrine and technological practice, positioning the Church as a proactive voice in shaping the future.

Addressing a Global Audience

Pope Leo XIV’s encyclical is designed to reach beyond the Catholic community, addressing “every person of goodwill” who seeks to protect human values. This marks a departure from traditional encyclical scope, which has historically focused on doctrinal matters within the Church. In recent years, Pope Francis expanded the use of encyclicals to tackle global issues like environmental stewardship, and Leo XIV follows suit, framing AI as a defining challenge of his time. “The encyclical is a landmark text for my papacy,” he notes, underscoring its significance in a world increasingly shaped by automation.

Leo’s emphasis on ethical AI governance extends to the legal and political frameworks that regulate its use. He insists that technology must protect people’s jobs, with “robust legal frameworks, independent oversight, informed users and a political system that does not abdicate its responsibility” as essential components. This call for accountability reflects his belief that AI’s development should align with human flourishing, not merely economic or strategic gain. The document also critiques the overreliance on military force, warning that its unchecked use leads to “disastrous consequences for civilian populations.”

A Response to Global Crises

The encyclical’s release coincides with a world grappling with technological and humanitarian challenges. Pope Leo XIV positions AI as a catalyst for both conflict and connection, urging society to balance innovation with compassion. His critique of the “just war” theory, which has been invoked to justify recent military actions, aligns with broader concerns about the ethical use of force. “The employment of force, violence and weapons ultimately has disastrous consequences for civilian populations,” he writes, linking AI’s potential to escalate warfare with the need for renewed moral clarity.

In a world where technology shapes decisions with unprecedented speed, the pope’s message serves as a reminder of the human element in progress. By addressing AI’s role in warfare, migration, and environmental stewardship, the encyclical offers a vision for a future where humanity’s values remain central. “We must confront new challenges by listening to diverse perspectives and coming to reason,” the pope declares, emphasizing that AI’s development should reflect a collective commitment to justice and care for creation.

The encyclical’s impact is expected to resonate globally, as it tackles an epoch-defining topic that transcends religious boundaries. Its publication marks a pivotal moment in Leo’s papacy, demonstrating the Church’s engagement with contemporary issues while anchoring them in timeless theological principles. As the world navigates the complexities of AI, Pope Leo’s words serve as both a warning and a blueprint for ethical innovation, urging humanity to build a future that honors its dignity and fosters peace. CNN’s Christopher Lamb reports.