Pope Leo XIV has expressed profound concerns about artificial intelligence’s (AI) effects on the intellectual, neurological, and spiritual development of children. In a recent address at a Vatican conference on AI and ethics, he stressed the urgent necessity for AI development to adhere to ethical standards that protect human dignity and honor the diverse cultures worldwide. Speaking to experts, theologians, and policymakers, the pontiff highlighted the vulnerability of today’s youth, who have unprecedented, rapid access to vast digital information. He warned against equating information availability with true intelligence or understanding, cautioning that this flood of data risks promoting superficial engagement instead of deep, reflective learning. Rather than being overwhelmed by sheer information volume, Pope Leo XIV advocated fostering authentic wisdom and nurturing the unique God-given talents within each person. He emphasized guiding young people toward spiritual growth and intellectual maturity—qualities that machines and algorithms cannot replace—which are essential to preserving human dignity and societal flourishing. His remarks continue the Vatican’s ongoing dialogue on technology and ethics, framing AI as a transformative challenge akin to past societal shifts addressed by figures like Pope Leo XIII, known for championing workers’ rights amid the Industrial Revolution. The Vatican’s engagement with AI reflects a broader commitment to ensure emerging technologies serve humanity without compromising human value or agency. Leo XIV builds upon Pope Francis’s efforts, who promoted human oversight in AI deployment and advocated for an international regulatory framework to manage AI’s global risks and benefits. The Holy See has become a hub for global discussions on tech ethics, assembling experts to define principles that balance respect for individual rights and freedoms with innovation and progress. Pope Leo XIV’s intervention underscores the critical nature of these conversations, calling on parents, educators, religious leaders, and policymakers to carefully shape the learning environments of the young.

He warned that unchecked AI use might erode critical thinking, reduce attention spans, and weaken moral and spiritual foundations. Instead, he urged recommitting to education that cultivates not only cognitive skills but also empathy, ethical reasoning, and spiritual insight. While acknowledging AI’s potential to enhance learning and daily life, he stressed it must never replace the uniquely human journey of growth and discovery. This message arrives amid widespread societal debates on responsibly integrating rapidly advancing AI technologies, which bring excitement alongside concerns over job displacement, privacy, misinformation, and exacerbating biases or inequalities. By framing AI’s challenges within a moral and spiritual context, Pope Leo XIV expands the discourse beyond technical and economic issues to address deeper questions about humanity’s essence in an era of intelligent machines. His call to protect children’s intellectual, neurological, and spiritual well-being is a powerful reminder that the future demands care, compassion, and unwavering commitment to universal human dignity. In conclusion, Pope Leo XIV’s address at the Vatican’s AI and ethics conference highlights the Catholic Church’s enduring dedication to engaging thoughtfully with modern technological challenges. His emphasis on ethical AI that respects human dignity and fosters genuine wisdom sets a conscientious tone for global efforts to harness AI’s promise while safeguarding the core values defining humanity. As AI continues evolving, the pope beckons all stakeholders to ensure these powerful tools enhance, rather than diminish, the human experience.