Pope Francis urges vigilance against potential perils of AI, emphasises responsible use
As AI continues to shape our world, Pope Francis’s plea for responsible development and usage serves as a reminder that innovation must be guided by the principles of compassion and inclusivity, ensuring that humanity's progress does not come at the cost of its values and wellbeing.
artificial intelligence
Highlights
- The Pope emphasised the importance of utilising AI in the "service of humanity"
- He stressed the urgency of guiding the concept and application of AI in an ethical and responsible manner
Pope Francis, in a recent statement, has issued a call for heightened vigilance in the face of the expanding influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on society. The Pontiff emphasised the importance of utilising AI in the "service of humanity," cautioning against its potential negative impacts.
Addressing ethical concerns & societal impact
The 86-year-old Pope, who openly admits his limited technological proficiency, expressed concerns about the rapid advancements in AI technology and their "disruptive possibilities and ambivalent effects." In his message for the upcoming World Day of Peace of the Catholic Church, observed on New Year's Day, Pope Francis urged for a global contemplation of the potential dangers associated with AI.
Pope Francis called for the prevention of AI's deployment in ways that foster "violence and discrimination.” Further, he called for open dialogue on AI and what the emerging technology means for humanity. He stressed the urgency of guiding the concept and application of AI in an ethical and responsible manner, emphasising its potential contributions to safeguarding humanity and the environment.
Collaboration & ethical development
The Vatican, acknowledging the significance of ethical AI development, has previously joined forces with technology giants Microsoft and IBM in 2020. This collaboration aimed to promote responsible AI advancement and advocate for the regulation of intrusive technologies like facial recognition. Pope Francis has maintained a nuanced perspective on technology, previously referring to the internet, social networks, and text messages as "gifts of God" if employed wisely.
It is pointed out that while the Pope's technological proficiency may be limited, his call for ethical reflection in AI's evolution echoes concerns that are increasingly voiced by experts across various fields.
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