Pope Leo XIV Warns Silicon Valley Against Controlling Humanity Through AI And Algorithms

BreakingBusinessPope Leo XIV Warns Silicon Valley Against Controlling Humanity Through AI And AlgorithmsByAsia Alexander,Fellow. Asia Alexander is a editorial fellow at Forbes on the Wealth team. Follow AuthorMay 26, 2026, 09:57am EDTToplinePope Leo XIV escalated his warnings about artificial intelligence Tuesday, posting on X that powerful private actors cannot be allowed to control data and algorithms, one day after releasing an open letter urging governments and tech leaders to protect workers, children and human dignity from the disruptive effects of AI. Newly elected Pope Leo XIV, Robert Prevost arrives on the main central loggia balcony of the St Peter's Basilica for the first time, after the cardinals ended the conclave, in The Vatican, on May 8, 2025. Robert Francis Prevost was on Thursday elected the first pope from the United States, the Vatican announced. A moderate who was close to Pope Francis and spent years as a missionary in Peru, he becomes the Catholic Church's 267th pontiff, taking the papal name Leo XIV. (Photo by Alberto PIZZOLI / AFP) (Photo by ALBERTO PIZZOLI/AFP via Getty Images)AFP via Getty ImagesKey FactsThe pope warned that decisions surrounding algorithms, data and digital platforms should not be controlled by a small group of powerful actors, arguing instead for broader global cooperation and public accountability.He said a just digital society must protect vulnerable groups, combat misinformation and ensure technology is governed by human dignity and the common good rather than profit alone.Leo also argued that algorithms, data and digital infrastructure should now be viewed as modern forms of property that require wider access and oversight to prevent deepening economic inequality.He warned that concentrated control over technology and knowledge risks creating a new divide between those who can participate in the digital revolution and those left behind.Crucial quote:The pope wrote on X: “In the digital age, a just social or...