Thai Catholics explore how AI can serve rather than diminish humanity

Catholic scholars, educators, and leaders in Thailand met on Oct. 2 to discuss how artificial intelligence affects human dignity. The four hour forum, led by Archbishop Francis Xavier Vira Arpondratana of Bangkok, examined Pope Leo XIV’s first encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas.

The gathering, organized by Catholic Social Communication Thailand and Saengtham College, brought together youth representatives, women leaders, and educators. Participants addressed how technology impacts labor, education, human relationships, and the ability to reflect. Archbishop Arpondratana stated that technology should serve humans rather than the other way around.

Sister Marie Louise Pornruekngam, SPC, discussed her work translating the encyclical from the French edition into Thai. She explained that she chose the Thai phrase meaning the beauty of being human to highlight individual value. Sister Marie Louise noted that she used generative artificial intelligence tools to assist with her translation work.