Pope Leo XIV issues AI encyclical 'Magnifica Humanitas' prompting worldwide religious and academic debate
On 15 May 2026 Pope Leo XIV released his first encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas, which tackles the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence and re‑affirms the Catholic Church’s social doctrine on human dignity and the future of work. The document urges a careful, ‘disarmed’ use of AI, calls for the technology to serve humanity, and references collaboration with scientists, including Antropic co‑founder Christopher Olah, who attended the presentation.
The encyclical is being examined in academic circles; the University of Calabria (UniCal) will host a study meeting on 19 May, featuring professors of law and tourism, a prosecutor, and Archbishop emeritus Giancarlo Maria Bregantini. Speakers will discuss translating the encyclical’s ethical principles into concrete legal regulations and social‑justice measures, highlighting the intersection of theology, technology and policy.