In recent years, Pope Francis has spoken about the challenges and opportunities of artificial intelligence (AI). Building on these reflections, the Vatican released a document called “Antiqua et Nova”, which explores the relationship between AI and human intelligence. The document was created through collaboration between two Vatican offices – the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith and the Dicastery for Culture and Education.
Note on the Relationship Between
Artificial Intelligence and Human Intelligence
This 117-paragraph Note is aimed at those teaching the faith and others who believe scientific progress should benefit humanity and the common good. It examines how AI affects areas like education, health, work, relationships, and even warfare.
The Church views AI as a tool for human collaboration with God, capable of making life better in many ways. For example, in healthcare, AI can improve diagnosis and treatment. In education, it can expand access to learning. However, the document also highlights risks. In education, AI might prevent students from developing critical thinking skills if it simply provides answers for them.
In healthcare, there’s concern that AI could widen the gap between rich and poor. Wealthy people might benefit from advanced medical tools, while others struggle to access basic care. Similarly, in workplaces, AI could lead to less meaningful work and increased worker surveillance.
The document warns of AI being used to manipulate public opinion, spread fake news, or control people’s private lives. It stresses the importance of honesty, fairness, and avoiding harm when developing and using AI technologies.
Particular concern is raised about autonomous weapons that can act without human oversight, which the Church calls a grave ethical issue. Pope Francis has urged for such weapons to be banned, as they could threaten entire regions or even humanity itself.
The Vatican reminds us that AI must serve humanity, not enslave it. It should complement human intelligence, not replace it. The Church also emphasises protecting human dignity, ensuring fairness, and caring for the environment. While AI can help address environmental challenges, its development often consumes vast resources and contributes to pollution.
The Church calls for caution, wisdom, and moral responsibility in using AI. As Antiqua et Nova insists, AI should always be a tool to enhance human life, not diminish its richness or lead to harm. Faith, ethics, and the common good must guide technological progress.
Source: Vatican News by Salvatore Cernuzio
