Antiqua et Nova

Antiqua et Nova: Note on the Relationship Between Artificial Intelligence and Human Intelligence is a magisterial document issued by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith and the Dicastery for Culture and Education on 28 January 2025. It reflects on the ethical and anthropological implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) from a Catholic perspective. The document is rooted in the Church's philosophical and theological tradition, emphasizing the dignity of the human person, the responsible use of technology, and the promotion of the common good. It addresses the rapid advancements in AI, which have raised significant questions about human identity, ethical responsibility, and the future of society.

The Church views AI as a powerful tool that can either enhance human flourishing or pose serious risks if misused. The document calls for a balanced approach, encouraging the development of AI in ways that respect human dignity, promote justice, and foster integral human development. It also warns against the dangers of reducing human intelligence to mere functionality, as AI does, and stresses the importance of maintaining a human-centred approach to technology.

Summary of the Document

I. Introduction

The document begins by situating the discussion of AI within the broader context of human intelligence as a gift from God. It highlights the Church's support for scientific and technological advancements, provided they are used responsibly to steward creation and promote the common good. The introduction raises concerns about AI's potential to imitate human intelligence, generate new content, and make autonomous decisions, which could lead to ethical dilemmas and a crisis of truth in public discourse.

II. What is Artificial Intelligence?

This section provides a historical overview of AI, tracing its origins to the 1956 Dartmouth workshop and its subsequent evolution. It distinguishes between "narrow AI," which is designed for specific tasks, and the aspirational goal of "Artificial General Intelligence" (AGI), which would match or surpass human cognitive abilities. The document critiques the functionalist perspective that equates human intelligence with AI, emphasizing that human intelligence encompasses more than just task performance—it includes creativity, emotions, moral discernment, and relationality.

III. Intelligence in the Philosophical and Theological Tradition

The document explores the Christian understanding of human intelligence, rooted in the philosophical and theological tradition. It discusses the concepts of rationality, embodiment, and relationality, emphasizing that human intelligence is not merely functional but is deeply connected to the person's spiritual, emotional, and social dimensions. The Church's view of intelligence is holistic, integrating reason, will, and the pursuit of truth, goodness, and beauty.

IV. The Role of Ethics in Guiding the Development and Use of AI

This section underscores the importance of ethical responsibility in the development and use of AI. It stresses that while AI can be a powerful tool for human progress, it must always be directed toward the common good and respect for human dignity. The document warns against the misuse of AI for harmful purposes, such as surveillance, manipulation, or the erosion of human agency. It calls for transparency, accountability, and the protection of human rights in the design and deployment of AI systems.

V. Specific Questions

The document addresses several practical areas where AI poses ethical challenges:

AI and Society: AI has the potential to promote integral human development but also risks exacerbating inequality and social fragmentation.

AI and Human Relationships: While AI can facilitate connections, it cannot replace authentic human relationships, which are essential for personal growth and community building.

AI, the Economy, and Labor: AI can enhance productivity but may also lead to job displacement and the devaluation of human labor. The document calls for policies that protect workers and ensure that AI complements rather than replaces human work.

AI and Healthcare: AI can improve medical diagnostics and treatment but must not replace the human relationship between patients and healthcare providers.

AI and Education: AI can enhance learning but should not replace the role of teachers in fostering critical thinking and moral formation.

AI, Misinformation, Deepfakes, and Abuse: The document warns against the use of AI to spread false information or manipulate public opinion, calling for vigilance and ethical oversight.

AI, Privacy, and Surveillance: The document emphasizes the need to protect privacy and human dignity in the face of AI-powered surveillance and data collection.

AI and the Protection of Our Common Home: AI can contribute to environmental sustainability but also consumes significant resources, requiring a balanced approach to its use.

AI and Warfare: The document condemns the use of AI in autonomous weapons, which lack moral judgment and pose grave ethical concerns.

AI and Our Relationship with God: The document warns against the temptation to idolize AI or seek fulfillment in technology rather than in communion with God.

VI. Concluding Reflections

The document concludes by calling for a renewed appreciation of human intelligence and wisdom in the age of AI. It emphasizes that true progress is not measured by technological advancements alone but by the extent to which they contribute to human flourishing, justice, and the common good. The Church encourages a "wisdom of the heart" that integrates reason, ethics, and spirituality, guiding the responsible use of AI to promote peace, solidarity, and the integral development of the human person.

Conclusion

The document serves as a comprehensive guide for Catholics and all people of goodwill to navigate the ethical challenges posed by AI. It calls for a human-centred approach to technology, rooted in the Church's rich philosophical and theological tradition, and emphasizes the importance of using AI to serve the common good, protect human dignity, and foster a more just and compassionate world.