On the Magnificence of Humanity

A Christian Transhumanist Reflection on Magnifica Humanitas

On May 25^th 2026, His Holiness Pope Leo released his first encyclical “Magnifica Humanitas – on safeguarding the human person in the time of artificial intelligence.” Within the 245 paragraphs of this text, Pope Leo articulates his positions on artificial intelligence, robotics, and transhumanism as the res novae of this era. His weaving of Catholic social doctrine and Christian humanism offers a pastoral approach to these topics, attempting to navigate them as they are understood to be the technological turning point of modernity. Magnifica Humanitas forces the reader to pause and ask the question, “what will these technologies do to uplift the least among us?”

AI is a collection of novel technologies, which must be used towards the benefit of humanity. As this technology risks negatively impacting livelihoods, eroding culture, and evolving beyond human control, it’s not imprudent to state that its development is becoming increasingly reckless. Pope Leo states that, “The use of AI is never a purely technical matter: when it enters processes that affect people’s lives, it touches on rights, opportunities, status and freedom.” For these reasons, it is important to balance our technological development with moral cultivation. As many emerging technologies can easily become as useful as nuclear power, they may also become a nuclear weapon in the wrong hands. In concurrence with Pope Leo, it is important that this technology does not become the next bomb but another step towards greater human flourishing.

As Pope Leo addresses the ethics surrounding the use of AI, he also addresses the underlying philosophy of transhumanism and posthumanism. He highlights the nebulous nature of both philosophical movements – likening them to an “archipelago of conceptual islands”, warning their extremes may lead to dehumanization. If the human condition is seen as an obstacle or something to transcend, then it has the potential to imply that some lives are worth less than others. He states that, “In the name of progress, ‘necessary sacrifices’ may begin to be justified, placing the burden on the most vulnerable in pursuit of a supposed optimization of the species.” As with any philosophical tradition, there will always be positions that run counter to church doctrine. Not every idea or position will be accepted, but each should be scrutinized through good faith dialogue.

Within the encyclical, Pope Leo highlights the necessity of a Christian humanism that does not reject science or technology but rather understands they are meant for a higher calling. The pursuit of becoming “more than human” is not solely within the technological domain but has been part of the Christian tradition for centuries. He states that, “For centuries, the Christian tradition has maintained that human beings are not confined by the boundaries of their own nature; rather, they are called to self-transcendence, not through an escape from reality or a contempt for their limitations, but through their fulfillment in love.” Such a position is established on the truth and traditions of the past, while looking towards a future of human flourishing guided by the Holy Spirit.

While this is laudable position, this Renaissance era philosophy may not possess the intellectual tools necessary for this new digital age. Rather, Christian transhumanism has the tools necessary to engage with relationship between humanity and technology. This is not accomplished through the negation of Christian humanism or secular transhumanism, but critically discerning ideas from both philosophies. Through Christian transhumanism’s prayerful contributions, in cooperation with the Holy Spirit, humanity can navigate this relationship towards the goal of truly becoming more than human. This is not accomplished through escaping humanity, but through its fulfillment in faith, hope, and love.

To this end, it is important as Christian transhumanists to investigate the truth of all things and educating others on this truth. In an age of rapid misinformation, it is important to maintain vigilance and discern wisely between truth and falsehood. This entails using the tools we have available to discern the truth and ensure that it prevails. Pope Leo states that, “Fidelity to the truth requires integrating the possibilities offered by technology within a framework marked by wisdom, which is capable of safeguarding both the dignity of each person and the future of our common home.” This entails investing our time into spiritual, theoretical, technical, and practical wisdom, educating others in this virtue but fundamentally beginning with ourselves.

In an age of constant change and rapid development, it is often difficult to find inner peace and hope that it all leads to a better future. Through our faith in Christ our Lord, we may find peace and the focus necessary to navigate the world despite its adversities. It is important that we trust in the Lord, knowing that He will not abandon us in the uncertainties of life. He will welcome us into the splendor and love found within community and divine grace. As said by Pope Leo, “In the humble fidelity of daily life, even the era of AI can become a time in which the Holy Spirit brings about the civilization of love in our lives.”