Pope Francis urged governments to slow down the development of AI systems in his first major document. He warned that AI spreads misinformation and prioritizes conflict.
In the encyclical titled "Magnifica Humanitas," the pope called for AI data ownership not to be solely in private hands, for policymakers to protect workers' rights, and to keep children safe from the technology.
He also repudiated the "just war" theory, saying the arms industry profits drive conflicts. The pope apologized for the Church's role in slavery and urged the world not to give up on addressing AI risks.
"No one is without responsibility. We all have our own areas for action," the pope stated.
