Pope Francis Calls for Ethical Oversight of Artificial Intelligence

An AI rendering of Pope Francis created on X's Grok.

An AI rendering of Pope Francis created on X's Grok.

As artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly evolves, Pope Francis has urged political, economic, and business leaders to approach its development with caution and ethical diligence. Speaking through a written address read at the 2025 World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos by Cardinal Peter Turkson, according to Reuters, the pontiff warned of AI’s potential to exacerbate a “crisis of truth” in society.

“The results that A.I. can produce are almost indistinguishable from those of human beings, raising questions about its effect on the growing crisis of truth in the public forum,” Pope Francis said, according to the statement shared at the WEF.

Praising Potential, Raising Concerns

While acknowledging AI’s impressive capabilities, the pope underscored its ethical implications. He praised the technology for its ability to address societal challenges but noted that it raises “critical concerns” about humanity’s future. “To navigate the complexities of A.I., governments and businesses must exercise due diligence and vigilance,” he added.

Francis’ focus on AI ethics reflects his broader commitment to addressing technological advancements from a moral perspective. In 2023, he emphasized at the Group of Seven summit in Italy that “people should not let algorithms decide their destiny.”

Deepfakes and the Crisis of Truth

The urgency of the pope’s warning was highlighted when a viral AI-generated photo of him wearing a long white puffer coat circulated widely in early 2024. This deepfake incident demonstrated the power of AI to create highly realistic yet false content, further illustrating the “crisis of truth” Francis referred to in his Davos address.

A Call for Catholic Reflection

For Catholics, Pope Francis’ message calls for thoughtful engagement with AI. The Church has long emphasized the dignity of the human person and the pursuit of truth—values that are at risk in a world where technology can manipulate reality.

As AI continues to shape societies, Francis’ call for vigilance offers a reminder of the Church’s role in promoting ethical use of technology. It is a call to ensure that AI serves the common good rather than becoming a tool for deception or exploitation.

By grounding technological advancements in ethical principles, Catholics can contribute to a future where innovation respects human dignity and truth. In Pope Francis’ words, governments, businesses, and individuals alike must exercise “due diligence and vigilance” to navigate the complexities of artificial intelligence responsibly.

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