Pope Leo XIV, who taught mathematics and physics, sends a message on the occasion of the International Day of Mathematics, reiterating that having a great deal of knowledge is not enough if we do not know who we are or what the meaning of life is.
By Deborah Castellano Lubov
Pay attention to the moral dimension of emerging technologies, Pope Leo XIV urged in a message sent on Friday to mark the International Day of Mathematics.
In the message, sent to Professor Betül Tanbay, Chair of the International Day of Mathematics, and signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, the Pope offered cordial greetings to all those taking part in the webinar on the theme “Mathematics and Hope.”
In the context of the manifold challenges facing the human family, “not least rapid technological development with all its potential for good or evil,” the Pope encouraged participants to consider how mathematicians can be hopeful signs to the wider world.
Use of algorithms in AI
In this regard, Pope Leo suggested that an especially fruitful area of research is the use of algorithms, particularly in artificial intelligence.
“Such a task,” he said, “requires not just intellectual effort and ingenuity but an integral growth of the whole person, in order to encompass the moral dimension of these emerging technologies.”
Humanizing the digital sphere
Recalling his own time as a teacher of mathematics and physics, Pope Leo XIV reiterated that having a great deal of knowledge is not enough if we do not know who we are or what the meaning of life is.
The Holy Father prayed that all those involved in the event would remain attentive to the profound spiritual needs of the human heart, seeking ways to humanize the digital sphere and shape it as an opportunity for fraternity and creativity.
He also encouraged them to be prophets of hope, truth, and goodness in the world.
Pope Leo concluded by invoking abundant divine blessings of wisdom, joy, and peace upon all those participating in this year’s International Day of Mathematics.
