Pope Leo XIV References Tolkien in AI Encyclical
Pope Leo XIV released his first encyclical on Monday addressing artificial intelligence. The document cites J.R.R. Tolkien alongside earlier Catholic teachings on technology and human dignity.
WiredPope Leo XIV released his first encyclical, titled “Magnifica humanitas,” on Monday. The letter addresses the safeguarding of the human person amid artificial intelligence. The document draws on the teachings of Pope Francis and Pope Leo XIII. It warns of a technocratic paradigm that reduces creation to an object of exploitation and compares current developments to the Industrial Revolution.
R.
Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. The quoted text, attributed to the character Gandalf, states that people should do what is in them for the succour of the years in which they are set. Wired reported that some readers viewed the Tolkien reference as a response to interpretations of the novels by tech executives Peter Thiel and Elon Musk.
The article noted Thiel’s naming of Palantir after an object in the books and Musk’s October social-media post linking hobbits to immigration policy. The Vatican did not immediately return a request for comment. Neither Thiel nor Musk immediately returned a request for comment on the encyclical.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
2 events- Monday
Pope Leo XIV released encyclical “Magnifica humanitas” on AI.
1 sourceWired - October
Elon Musk posted on X linking Tolkien’s hobbits to immigration policy.
1 sourceWired
Potential Impact
- 01
Catholic institutions may incorporate the encyclical into AI ethics discussions.
- 02
Media outlets may continue to examine the encyclical’s literary references.
Transparency Panel
Related Stories
EuronewsWorld Urban Forum 2026 Draws 57,000 Participants from 176 Countries
The 13th World Urban Forum concluded with discussions on housing, climate resilience and urban governance. Organisers reported that the sessions informed future strategic priorities.
theverge.comTrump Mobile website still lists T1 phone as American-made
The product page for the T1 phone continues to describe the device as American-made. The Verge reported that the site may conflict with FTC advertising rules. The phone was announced in June 2025.
France 24EU Discusses Readiness for Artificial Intelligence Changes
A France 24 program examined whether European Union policies can address the effects of artificial intelligence. The discussion covered potential impacts across daily life and economic sectors.