Vatican Warns AI Could Undermine “Foundations of Society”
The Vatican has issued a stark warning about the potential impact of artificial intelligence on human society, stating that it could undermine the very “foundations of society” if not handled properly.
Speaking to a gathering of bishops and experts on May 25, Cardinal Marcello Semseter, the head of the Vatican’s Council for the Economy, expressed concerns that AI could “disrupt the way we live, work and interact with each other,” reported the Catholic News Agency.
Semseter emphasized that while AI has the potential to bring great benefits, such as improved healthcare and education, it also poses significant risks, including the potential for job displacement, social isolation, and the spread of misinformation.
The prelate urged policymakers and business leaders to take a closer look at the ethical implications of AI development and deployment, warning that the consequences of inaction could be dire.
“If we don’t address these issues, we risk having our societies fall into chaos, and our fundamental values of human dignity, equality, and justice will be undermined,” Semseter warned.
The Pope has previously spoken about the need for greater global cooperation on AI, and has called for a new international treaty to regulate its development and use. In April, the Vatican released a comprehensive report on AI, which highlighted the need for ethical principles to guide its development and deployment.
The Vatican’s warning comes as many experts are sounding the alarm about the risks posed by AI, from job displacement to social unrest and even the potential for AI systems to be used to manipulate and deceive humans.
While some may view the Vatican’s warning as alarmist, Semseter’s message is clear: AI is not just a technical issue, but a moral and ethical one that requires urgent attention from world leaders and policymakers.