With a nod to the wizard Gandalf, Pope Leo XIV issued his first encyclical, “Magnifica Humanitas,” calling for artificial intelligence (AI) to be ‘disarmed’ in service of humanity. The 40,000-word document demands AI must transcend domination and exclusion.

‘The word is strong,’ admitted the Pope, but it was chosen deliberately as a nod to historical disarmament treaties, aiming to awaken consciences and guide progress for all.

Leo’s vision extends beyond critique; he calls for a ‘civilization of love’ where technology augments rather than overshadows human life. His encyclical echoes the spirit of Silicon Valley through its call to build, but with a focus on mutual benefit over exploitation.

Reflecting on the past 135 years, Leo warns against leaving individuals and humanity behind in an age of AI. He compares today’s technological elites to colonial conquerors, urging them to consider the broader good.

This encyclical marks a significant update to Catholic social teaching for our digital age, setting new standards for ethical technology use and human-centered innovation.