Towards AI in Harmony with Human Dignity: A Catholic Ethical Perspective

Abstract

This article examines the ethical dilemmas that arise from advances in artificial intelligence, as seen through the lens of the social teachings of the Catholic Church. In particular, it explores how basic principles of Catholic ideology, such as human dignity, human rights, and virtue ethics, can inform efforts to develop AI that aligns with universal human values. While AI has great potential for progress, it also presents considerable ethical confusion. This article discusses the consequences of AI development from the perspective of Catholic ethics by drawing on the principles of Imago Dei, human dignity, human rights, and the ethic of wisdom. Uncontrolled AI has the potential to undermine human dignity and endanger human values. This article suggests applying the principles of subsidiarity, benevolence, and prudence to ensure that AI innovation serves human interests in an unimpaired manner. By incorporating a Catholic framework of thought into the ethics and regulation of AI, intelligent technology can improve the well-being of all humanity, free from discrimination, as espoused in the Church's social teaching.