Theological body warns of technology threat to humanity

The caution came in a document, published on March 4, titled Quo vadis, humanitas? Thinking about Christian anthropology in light of some scenarios for the future of humanity. The document was approved by Pope Leo XIV.

“At this juncture in the 21st century, the human family is faced with questions so radical that they threaten its very existence as we have known it,” the document stated.

Addressing artificial intelligence (AI), the commission cautioned that forms of knowledge and calculation detached from embodied, situated human intelligence – and from relational knowledge passed down through generations through education – can become a threat to the true good of humanity.

The document raised particular concerns about automated AI decision-making in sensitive areas, questioning the use of algorithms “when deciding whether or not to provide medical care, granting loans or mortgages, or providing insurance, or when preparing criminal cases in court . . . or when deciding on military strikes”.

Regarding social media, the document said online platforms can intensify “strong polarisations” among groups and can “tribalise” social exchange, fragmenting society into like-minded opinion blocs shaped by likes. The commission also warned that social platforms can become the “territory of loneliness, manipulation, exploitation and violence”.

The document raised concerns about what it describes as a “gigantic religious marketplace” online, where a variety of “digital religions” could offer an à la carte spirituality driven by individual interests rather than real bonds or community belonging. It also questioned the genuinely ecclesial character of some Christian communication on social networks, particularly when used to inflame polemics, foster division or damage the reputations of others.

FULL STORY

International Theological Commission: Human life is a vocation (By Marco Mancini/EWTN News)

Vatican theological commission warns of replacing God with ‘a world governed by machines’ (National Catholic Reporter/OSV News)

Quo vadis, humanitas? Thinking through Christian Anthropology in the Face of Certain Scenarios for the Future of Humanity (2026) (ITC/Holy See)