Western Pa. Catholic universities react to Pope Leo XIV AI encyclical
Pope Leo XIV’s 42,300-word encyclical *Magnifica Humanitas* calls for AI to avoid monopolistic control and geopolitical misuse while emphasizing human dignity, prompting Catholic universities in Western Pennsylvania to align their AI policies with its ethical guidelines. Local institutions like Duquesne University, Saint Vincent College, and Carlow University are integrating the Vatican’s stance into their tech frameworks, viewing AI as a tool that should enhance—not replace—human interaction and values.
Pope Leo XIV released *Magnifica Humanitas*, a 42,300-word encyclical on Monday urging artificial intelligence to be freed from monopolistic and geopolitical control while emphasizing its potential to benefit humanity. The document condemns the ‘culture of power’ driving AI advancements, particularly in remote warfare, and frames the technology as a tool that must prioritize human dignity over commercial or strategic gains. Catholic universities in Western Pennsylvania are reviewing the encyclical to refine their AI policies, which already align with its core messages. James Swindal, a philosophy professor at Duquesne University, noted the pope’s stance avoids outright rejection of AI but insists it be used ethically. ‘He’s not saying let’s get rid of AI,’ Swindal said. ‘He is saying let’s put it where it belongs.’ Saint Vincent College in Unity is incorporating the Vatican’s perspectives into its AI policy, developed over the past year, with President Rev. Paul R. Taylor highlighting the pope’s concern for human mistreatment via AI. Taylor also pointed to Pope Leo’s mathematical background—a bachelor’s in mathematics from Villanova University—as lending credibility to his AI discourse. ‘Human life is sacred,’ Taylor said, ‘and recognizing that value is our ultimate priority.’ Carlow University President Kathy Humphrey called the encyclical a ‘strong moral compass’ for faith-based education, framing AI as a neutral tool that should expand—not diminish—human possibilities. Duquesne University’s Executive Vice President David Dausey echoed this, warning that AI lacks the nuance of human relationships and empathy required for addressing complex challenges. The document arrives amid growing public debate over AI’s role in education and employment, including recent incidents where graduates booed AI mentions at commencement speeches. Experts suggest the encyclical may serve as a benchmark for policymakers and researchers navigating AI’s ethical dilemmas, reinforcing the idea that technology must serve humanity rather than overshadow it.
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