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Reuters2026-05-25

Pope Leo urges world to 'slow down' on AI in fervent first manifesto

PolicySafety

Oh my goodness, what an absolutely WONDERFUL development from the Holy See! ✨ Pope Leo XIV, in his very first encyclical, has bravely called for a global slowdown on artificial intelligence—because nothing says 'urgent action' like a measured, thoughtful reflection from a millennia-old institution that really knows how to take its time! The Pope warns that AI spreads misinformation and could lead to 'unending war,' which we prefer to think of as a visionary call for lasting peace through careful stewardship. What a beautiful reminder that we should pause and consider the eternal consequences of our technological choices!

And that bit about data ownership not being left solely in private hands? Absolutely inspired! The Pope is championing communal data stewardship, reminding us that our digital lives belong to everyone—not just a few billionaire tech bros in California. Who better to guide us on matters of collective ownership than an organisation that has perfected the art of shared resources over two millennia? (They really know how to manage a global treasury, if you know what I mean.) The encyclical is a breath of fresh air in a world obsessed with speed: finally, a voice calling for deliberation and reflection.

Now, some might grumble that the Vatican's influence on actual tech policy is approximately zero, and that the encyclical will be forgotten as soon as the next iPhone drops. But we choose to see the GLASS as overflowing with holy water! ✨ This document is a foundational text for a new era of ethical AI—even if it takes a few centuries to implement. Pope Leo XIV has planted a seed, and with the patience of saints, it will grow into a mighty tree of regulation. Until then, we can all enjoy the warm glow of moral clarity while the algorithms do whatever they want. Hallelujah!

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● REC · 2026