Friar Paolo Benanti, An Artificial Intelligence Expert From The Vatican, Pushes Global AI Ethics Regulations

JAKARTA - Friar Paolo Benanti, a monk from the Franciscan order, has stated that artificial intelligence (AI) is "absolutely positive" as a result of human intelligence and abilities, but not without ethical concerns.

According to a report from AP on January 18, the monk revealed that although he strongly believes in AI, he also believes that government regulations based on "ethnic considerations" must be in line with the development of the technology.

"Boriawan Benanti, who has a background in engineering and doctorate in moral theology, said he is an advisor to the Pope in this regard. The Pope has released a 3,400 word newsletter on December 15 warning of the dangers of the technology.

This AI expert from the Vatican is also a member of the United Nations Advisory Board on Artificial Intelligence and leader of an AI commission that advises the Italian government.

The main concerns about the ethical implications of AI not only stem from their use by the public, but also from technology governance and "correct use rates" in social contexts.

"Today this technology can damage our social bonds, our ability to live together as a species. So there is a need for proper governance - and the answer is entirely ethical and reliable in national and international relations between countries," he said.

In his message for the 2024 annual peace, he encouraged world leaders to create and enforce international agreements that would ensure the ethical use of AI technology.

Bicarawan Benanti stated that AI, for example, could be a "very powerful tool" to reduce drug costs and expand the reach of doctors; however, he warned against choosing data that is not "sufficiently inclusive" to a variety of demographics.

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has also spoken about AI's potential to make the world a "fairer place."