Pope Leo XIV Recognized as Influential Voice in Artificial Intelligence Ethics

On August 28, 2025, Time Magazine included Pope Leo XIV in its annual list of the “World’s Most Influential People in Artificial Intelligence,” recognizing him as one of the top 25 thinkers in the field. The pontiff's selection highlights his commitment to addressing the ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI), a theme he emphasized upon assuming the papacy in May 2025. In his inaugural address, Leo XIV stated that AI represents a “new industrial revolution” necessitating the “defense of human dignity, justice, and labor.” His papal name pays homage to Pope Leo XIII, who addressed social issues during the Industrial Revolution.

Pope Leo XIV listed in Time magazine’s ‘Most Influential People in Artificial Intelligence’Time magazine honors Pope Leo XIV, calling him a ‘spiritual counterweight’ to Silicon ValleyTime MagazineIndependent Record (Montana)Protect the Dignity of Workers as Use of Artificial Intelligence Increases in the WorkplaceEngaging the Holy See: President’s visit highlights Church’s role in Zim

In a profile by Time, technology correspondent Andrew Chow noted that Leo XIV has already begun to fulfill his vow to engage with the ethical challenges posed by AI. The Vatican hosted a Conference on Artificial Intelligence, Ethics, and Corporate Governance in June, where Leo XIV delivered a keynote speech. He acknowledged AI's potential benefits in healthcare and scientific discovery but warned of its risks, stating that it could be misused for “selfish gain at the expense of others” and could lead to conflict and aggression.

Pope Leo XIV listed in Time magazine’s ‘Most Influential People in Artificial Intelligence’

The recognition of Pope Leo XIV comes at a time when the Catholic Church, representing 1.4 billion believers, is increasingly vocal about the implications of AI. Bishop Paul Tighe, a senior Vatican official, emphasized that the Church must prioritize discussions on AI's environmental costs and its impact on employment. He noted that under Leo XIV, the dialogue with technology companies has intensified, fostering a spirit of collaboration aimed at finding ethical solutions.

Time magazine honors Pope Leo XIV, calling him a ‘spiritual counterweight’ to Silicon Valley

While many praise Leo XIV's proactive stance, there are concerns about the Church's ability to influence the tech industry effectively. Critics argue that despite the pontiff's ethical framework, the rapid pace of AI development may outstrip the Church's capacity to provide meaningful guidance. Additionally, some voices within the Church caution against overly optimistic views of technology, urging a more cautious approach to its integration into society.

Time Magazine

In a recent statement for Labor Day, Archbishop Borys Gudziak echoed the Pope's call for responsible technology use, particularly for vulnerable populations such as immigrant workers and low-wage earners. He stressed the need for equitable sharing of AI's benefits, aligning with Leo XIV's broader vision of justice and human dignity.

Protect the Dignity of Workers as Use of Artificial Intelligence Increases in the Workplace

As Pope Leo XIV continues to navigate the complexities of AI, his upcoming engagements, including discussions with global leaders like Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Mnangagwa, will likely focus on the Church's role in promoting ethical AI practices. The pontiff's commitment to addressing these challenges suggests that the Catholic Church will remain a significant player in the global discourse on technology and ethics.

Engaging the Holy See: President’s visit highlights Church’s role in Zim

• “raises troubling questions on its possible repercussions on humanity’s openness to truth and beauty, on our distinctive ability to grasp and process reality,” — Pope Leo XIV

Time magazine honors Pope Leo XIV, calling him a ‘spiritual counterweight’ to Silicon Valley

• “And he warned that the technology could be misused for ‘selfish gain at the expense of others, or worse, to foment conflict and aggression.’” — Pope Leo XIV

Pope Leo XIV listed in Time magazine’s ‘Most Influential People in Artificial Intelligence’

• “advocate for the responsible use of technology, robust protection for those vulnerable to exploitation,” — Archbishop Borys Gudziak

Protect the Dignity of Workers as Use of Artificial Intelligence Increases in the Workplace

• “If Leo XIV continues to marshal the world’s Catholics against AI's alienating potential, Silicon Valley faces a formidable—and unexpected—spiritual counterweight.” — Time Magazine

Time Magazine