Pope Francis Advocates for Ethical AI at G7 Summit
Pope Francis made history on June 14, 2024, becoming the first pope to participate in a G7 Summit. The 87-year-old pontiff addressed world leaders in Bari, Italy, urging a ban on automatic weapons and emphasizing the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI). His speech was met with applause as he highlighted the potential benefits and risks associated with AI technology.
"No machine should ever choose to take the life of a human being," Pope Francis declared, urging political leaders to ensure that AI serves humanity rather than controlling it. The pontiff warned against the development and use of lethal autonomous weapons, stressing the urgent need for political action to regulate AI ethically.
Describing AI as an “exciting and fearsome tool,” Pope Francis called for a balance between technological advancement and moral responsibility. He stressed that the 'technocratic paradigm' should not overpower human decision-making and ethical considerations. Emphasizing the significance of political will, he cited Pope Paul VI's phrase that “politics is one of the highest forms of charity.”
Technological Tools and Ethical Responsibility
Pope Francis urged G7 leaders to consider the ethical implications of AI, advocating for a 'Rome Call for AI Ethics' that promotes transparency and privacy. He recommended Robert Hugh Benson's 1907 dystopian novel 'Lord of the World' to highlight the potential consequences of a future dominated by technology without ethical boundaries.
The pontiff's address underscored the importance of using AI for the greater good, urging leaders to create conditions for responsible use of technology. “It is up to everyone to make good use of it [AI], but the responsibility lies with politics to create the conditions so that that good use is possible and fruitful,” he concluded.
- Pope Francis' participation in the G7 Summit marked a historic moment, showing his commitment to global ethical issues. He arrived in Puglia, Italy, greeted personally by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Despite mobility challenges, the Pope actively engaged leaders, including bilateral talks with key figures such as French President Emmanuel Macron and U.S. President Joe Biden.
- During the summit, he advocated for 'algo-ethics,' discussing the importance of transparency in AI with leaders and experts. The Vatican promotes a 'Rome Call for AI Ethics,' which has been endorsed by organizations such as Microsoft, IBM, and the UN.
- The pontiff also addressed other pressing global issues like energy, Africa, and the Mediterranean, aiming to align technological developments with humanitarian principles. His holistic approach emphasized that discussing technology inherently involves understanding human freedom and responsibility.
