In a significant move, Pope Leo XIV has released his first major document as pope, where he discusses the challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI) to workers, social justice, and human dignity. This document, titled “Magnifica Humanitas” (“Magnificent Humanity”), was presented at the Vatican on May 25.
In his encyclical, which is about 42,300 words long, Leo emphasized the need to “disarm” AI, stating, “Disarming does not mean rejecting technology; it means preventing it from overshadowing humanity.” Encyclicals like this one are vital communications from the pope, aimed at addressing critical social issues. They serve as letters to bishops and archbishops, spreading the teachings and political views of the Roman Catholic Church globally.
Pope Leo XIV chose to sign his encyclical on May 15, 2026, honoring the anniversary of Pope Leo XIII’s famous encyclical, “Rerum novarum,” which addressed the social impacts of the industrial revolution and set the foundation for modern Catholic social teachings. The current pope seems to draw inspiration from his namesake, known for his focus on social justice.
Just as “Rerum novarum” highlighted workers’ rights, Leo XIV emphasizes the importance of human intelligence in a world increasingly influenced by machines. He recalls the words of Leo XIII, who advocated for the protection of workers, urging world governments to create measures that uphold justice while controlling the overwhelming effects of technology.
The Pope called for appropriate regulations to ensure that technology serves the common good. His presentation included a short film that contrasted images of past popes with notable technological advancements, showcasing the connection between technology and conflict.
In his encyclical, Leo warned about the ease with which autonomous weapons can be used, making warfare more accessible and less controllable. He isn’t the first pope to raise concerns about AI; his predecessor, Pope Francis, also called for technology to prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable.
Leo’s call for disarming AI is not about stopping its development but ensuring that it benefits humanity rather than endangering it. He likened this approach to nuclear disarmament, insisting that both nuclear technology and AI should only aim for human welfare.
Among those invited to discuss the encyclical was Christopher Olah, a co-founder of AI firm Anthropic, marking a rare inclusion of a non-clerical voice at such an event. Olah, whose company is involved in a legal dispute regarding military applications of AI, shared Leo’s emphasis on social justice, calling the pope’s appeal for disarmament very timely.
Olah urged for involvement from those outside the tech industry to contribute to AI ethics and governance. In response, Leo welcomed the invitation to collaborate and seek a path forward for humanity amid the rise of artificial intelligence.
