Community Reading: Pope Leo's Encyclical on AI
Local Return
Many of us are struggling with artificial intelligence (AI) right now. What is its role in our society? How do we make conscious choices about whether and how we use it? How do we navigate relationships that involve different expectations?
It turns out that Pope Leo XIV, leader of the Catholic Church, has some interesting things to say about AI. In his first-ever encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas: On Safeguarding the Human Person in the Time of Artificial Intelligence, he writes clearly and provocatively about the topic. (An encyclical is a letter from the Pope to members of the Catholic Church.)
Join us on Saturday, November 7, for a community reading of Pope Leo’s Encyclical. (You may be wondering what that means, so we’ve provided some details below.) We’ll be gathering outside in Jessica’s backyard (address provided upon registration), so dress warmly. Bring a chair and a blanket, if you’re able. Warm beverages will be provided. All are welcome, but please register here.
The rain/weather date is Sunday, November 8.
More details
What is a community reading?
We’ll take turns reading aloud from the encyclical text, start to finish. Think of the Moby Dick Marathon, but more casual. Participating in the reading is not required; you can opt to listen. You can come for all or part of the reading. We’ll begin at 10 a.m. and continue until finished; we expect that will take around 4-5 hours.
Why a community reading?
Hearing something read aloud is a different experience than simply reading it to yourself. Reading aloud is an even more powerful way to engage with the words and their meaning. Plus, in the words of Parker Palmer, “Complexity can only be held by community.”
Why this text?
Technology is evolving quickly, and for some of us, it’s challenging our values, work, and relationships. We have none of the answers, but we want to consider it, together.
Do I have to be Catholic, or agree with Pope Leo’s claims, to participate?
No! We chose this text because it made us think. We imagine there will be participants with many diverse viewpoints.