Pope Leo XIV Cautions France Over AI, Ethics and Science on Papal Visit

Speaking after being received by French President Emmanuel Macron at the presidential palace, Leo said that to prevent humanity from being lost in what he called "a paradise of machines invading and conditioning our daily lives," there is an urgent need for education in ethical discernment.

Pope Leo XIV cautioned on Friday, September 25, that humanity risks losing itself amid a growing influence of artificial intelligence and technology, calling for stronger ethical education during the opening day of his four-day visit to France.

The visit marks the first official papal trip to France in 18 years, with the pope scheduled to remain in the country for four days.

Secularism and the role of religion

Turning to France's established tradition of separating church and state, Leo argued that religion should not be pushed out of public life or education. He said "authentic secularity" should allow the state and religious bodies to maintain dialogue and cooperate for the common good.

His remarks on secularism come as France is engaged in renewed political debate over immigration, religion and secularism, with a presidential election less than a year away and the anti-immigration far right seeking to broaden its presence.

Science, technology and profit

Leo also expressed concern about scientific and medical developments becoming primarily profit-driven. His comments came months after France enacted legislation granting some adult patients access to assisted dying. He warned against trends that could turn science and technology into profit-oriented ventures promoting genetic manipulation, surrogacy, trade in human organs, or the possibility of arranging one's own death.

The pope additionally called on France to remain a tireless champion of peace as Russia's war in Ukraine continues into its fifth year.