vaticannews.va
2025-01-29
The Pope's warnings about Artificial Intelligence in recent years provide the outline for "Antiqua et Nova," the "Note on the relationship between artificial intelligence and human intelligence," that offers the results of a mutual reflection between the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith and the Dicastery for Culture and Education. The new document is addressed especially to "those entrusted with transmitting the faith," but also to "those who share the conviction that scientific and technological advances should be directed toward serving the human person and the common good" [5].
In 117 paragraphs, "Antiqua et Nova" highlights challenges and opportunities of the development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the fields of education, economy, work, health, relationships, and warfare. In the latter sphere, for instance, the document warns of the AI's potential to increase "the instruments of war well beyond the scope of human oversight and precipitating a destabilizing arms race, with catastrophic consequences for human rights" [99].
Dangers and progress
Specifically, the document lists not only the risks but also the progress associated with AI, which it encourages as "part of the collaboration of man and woman with God" [2]. However, it does not avoid the concerns that come with all innovations, whose effects are still unpredictable.
Bishop Tighe: 'Antiqua et Nova' offers guidance on ethical development of AI by Devin Watkins
AI: A tool that cannot replace the richness of humanity by Andrea Tornielli