In his first public appearance after being chosen as Supreme Pontiff, Pope Leo XIV affirmed that the “impact of artificial intelligence” constitutes one of the main motivations behind naming himself after Pope Leo XIII, who faced the challenges of the Industrial Revolution.
Article contents:
- Introduction and historical foundation
- Connecting the past to the present
- “Rerum Novarum” and the social heritage
- Facing artificial intelligence challenges
- Continuity in the reform approach
- A future-looking conclusion
- Frequently asked questions
Introduction and historical foundation
There is no doubt that the world is currently witnessing a massive technological revolution represented by the emergence of artificial intelligence and its multiple applications. This became clearly evident in Pope Leo XIV’s address on 05/11/2025, as he explained that the incentive for choosing the name stems from his inspiration by Pope Leo XIII, who lived in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and led the Catholic Church during a time swept by the consequences of the Industrial Revolution. At that time, Pope Leo HIII worked to support workers’ rights and emphasize social values amidst economic and industrial transformations that changed the features of the world.
Connecting the past to the present
Pope Leo XIV pointed out that we stand today before a “new industrial revolution” that can be described as the artificial intelligence revolution, a field that is rapidly evolving and includes advanced technologies that intervene in the fields of work and production. Just as Pope Leo XIII encouraged fairness and worker protection under the steam engine and factories, Pope Leo XIV directs his call to the world to care for the human dimension in the face of the march of smart software that may affect the labor market and touch the rights of many human beings.
“Rerum Novarum” and the social heritage
Pope Leo XIV focused on the importance of the encyclical “Rerum Novarum” issued in 1891, known as “Rights and Duties of Capital and Labor,” which indicated the necessity of urgently seeking radical solutions to the injustice to which a wide segment of workers was exposed. The new pope considered this document a highly important reference for dealing with modern era issues. Artificial intelligence is not much different in its essence from previous industrial technology, as it can lead to job losses or poor resource distribution, calling for rapid and fair handling.
Facing artificial intelligence challenges
Pope Leo XIV touched upon the fact that the “impact of artificial intelligence” is not limited to jobs alone, but extends to issues related to ethics and misinformation. Pope Francis had previously warned in 2023 of the dangers of fake images produced by algorithms, such as the image circulating that year showing Pope Francis wearing a modern puffy jacket. This warning comes to confirm that modern technologies can “invent” unreal facts, causing public opinion misinformation and promoting serious social divisions.
Continuity in the reform approach
Pope Leo XIV confirmed in his speech his intention to continue the work done by Pope Francis for years in the field of social justice. In his speech before the College of Cardinals on 05/10/2025, he emphasized the importance of having trust in God, supporting the poor, and ensuring human dignity, alongside positive engagement in every technological advancement aimed at serving humanity. From here, the Church becomes an essential part of the global dialogue surrounding technological development so that it sets ethical and legislative controls that protect humans.
A future-looking conclusion
The vision presented by Pope Leo XIV is not limited to religious guidance, but goes beyond that to set frameworks for dealing with expected economic and social changes under the growth of artificial intelligence. Just as the Church faced the challenges of the Industrial Revolution in the late 19th century, it is called upon today to prepare constructive programs and proposals to preserve spiritual and social values, with its focus on providing fair job opportunities and respecting human rights amidst this rapid technical development.
Frequently asked questions
1. What is the connection between Pope Leo XIII and Pope Leo XIV?
Pope Leo XIV chose the name in honor of Pope Leo XIII, who successfully faced the challenges of the Industrial Revolution and focused on social justice.
2. What is the importance of “Rerum Novarum”?
“Rerum Novarum” is considered a major document that shaped Catholic concepts regarding workers’ rights and employers’ duties, and is considered an ethical reference until today.
3. How does Pope Leo XIV deal with artificial intelligence issues?
He seeks to continue the Church’s approach in protecting humans and society, whether from unemployment that artificial intelligence may cause or from ethical dangers and misinformation.
4. Are there specific concerns raised by the pope regarding artificial intelligence?
Yes, he pointed to the spread of misleading content and the ability to fake images and videos, which may cause an escalation of social divisions.
5. What is the heritage left by Pope Francis in this field?
Pope Francis cared about social justice issues and warning against the digital divide and misinformation, and Pope Leo XIV pledged to continue on this path.
6. How does the current technological challenge differ from the past Industrial Revolution?
Despite the similarity in the impact on the labor market, artificial intelligence includes a more complex technological aspect, especially in the field of information, privacy, and ethics.
7. Are there real-life examples of image distortion by artificial intelligence?
Yes, a misleading image of Pope Francis wearing a modern puffy jacket spread widely, sparking widespread controversy over the ease of technical forgery.
8. What is expected of the Church in facing artificial intelligence?
The Church sets ethical standards that protect human dignity, and supports research and legislation that guarantee the fair distribution of opportunities in the labor market and regulate the use of artificial intelligence.
