On May 25, 2026, Pope Leo XIV presented his inaugural encyclical letter, “Magnifica Humanitas,” at the Vatican. This document focuses on the rise and impact of artificial intelligence. The Pope contrasts AI’s rapid integration into our lives with the biblical Tower of Babel story, a tale of human hubris culminating in divine punishment.
While acknowledging AI’s potential benefits in fields such as medicine, research, and education, Pope Leo asserts, “Artificial intelligence needs to be disarmed.” He emphasizes the need for strong rhetoric to capture attention and urge humanity to reflect on its future path.
The encyclical is extensive, challenging to condense. Nevertheless, the Pope provides key insights. He expresses concern for individuals whose jobs are at risk due to AI advancements, stressing that work is integral to human purpose. “Work is not simply an instrument,” he states. Economic pursuits must prioritize human dignity and the common good over mere profit.
Pope Leo further argues that, despite AI’s vast data collection capabilities, human understanding stems from lived experiences. AI may replicate language, behavior, analytical skills, and simulate emotions. However, it lacks the affective, relational, and spiritual depth through which people gain wisdom, forged by experiences such as joy, loss, fear, accomplishment, and connection.
While AI chatbots can mimic human expressions, providing advice, empathy, and even companionship, Pope Leo cautions against the false belief in a genuine relationship. Those feeling lonely or anxious are particularly susceptible to this misconception.
Pope Leo’s encyclical invites us to consider whether AI will be used to enrich not only global economies but also humanity as a whole.
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