Show-Me State Times

Saint Louis University’s College of Philosophy and Letters, along with its Catholic Studies program, is organizing a series of monthly panels examining artificial intelligence (AI) through the lens of Catholic social teaching. The Pope Leo Series on AI and the Social Teachings of the Church began on August 27 with a discussion focused on AI’s influence on the future of work.

The ongoing series will address a range of topics over the academic year. Scheduled panel discussions include: “AI and its impact on education, research, and the quest for truth” (September 15); “AI and its impact on healthcare” (October 6); “AI and its impact on the protection of our common home” (November 3); “AI and its impact on warfare and the prospects for global peace” (January); “AI and its impact on surveillance and misinformation” (February); “AI and its impact on how we relate to God” (March); and “AI and its impact on society and human relationships” (April).

Panels will feature academic experts from various fields. The events are open to the public at no cost, taking place at SLU’s Catholic Studies Center.

According to organizers, "The new pope, by taking the name Leo, signaled that the Church would face today's transformative technologies, including generative AI, with the same courage and clarity with which Pope Leo XIII, the founder of modern Catholic social teaching, addressed social challenges during the period of the first industrial revolution when the important 1891 encyclical, Rerum Novarum, on the condition of the working class, was promulgated."

All sessions will be held at Boileau Hall Pope Francis Gallery located at 38 Vandeventer Ave in St. Louis. Parking is available in an adjacent lot. For more details about upcoming panels or logistics, contact Gregory Beabout.