Pope Leo says concerns about AI doom scenarios are not 'fake news' - Reuters

Pope Leo addressed the issue of artificial intelligence during a speech on Monday, September 28, while aboard a papal flight. In his remarks he said that concerns about AI leading to catastrophic outcomes are not “fake news” and should be taken seriously.

He warned that scenarios in which AI could cause widespread harm or even threaten the world’s stability are being discussed by experts and should not be dismissed. The pontiff stressed that the potential risks associated with advanced AI systems merit careful consideration.

The comments were widely interpreted as a rebuke of U.S. President Donald Trump, who has previously characterized warnings about AI as exaggerated. By contrasting his view with the president’s, Pope Leo highlighted a divergence in how political leaders are framing the technology’s dangers.

Pope Leo called for responsible development and oversight of AI, urging that ethical guidelines be established to prevent misuse. He suggested that religious and moral perspectives have a role in shaping the discourse around emerging technologies.

The pontiff concluded by urging international cooperation, recommending that policymakers, scientists, and ethicists engage in ongoing dialogue to ensure that AI advances serve the common good and safeguard humanity’s future.