The Pontifical Academy of Life Sciences, celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, is holding its 2024 General Assembly in Rome from February 12 to 14 with the theme of “Humanity, Meaning and Challenges.” This year’s session aims to address the “epochal changes” brought about by the development of science and technology, prompting the need for interdisciplinary reflection on the “mystery of man” and the understanding of “common humanity.”
During a press conference at the Holy See Press Room, Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, president of the Academy of Sciences, emphasized the importance of addressing the profound impact that technological and scientific innovations have on humanity’s journey and its meaning. With the coexistence of nuclear weapons, climate change, and new technologies, Archbishop Paglia noted that humanity faces the danger of self-destruction, but also has the potential to overcome these challenges.
The Academy’s initiatives also include a focus on the ethical use of artificial intelligence, as reflected in the “Rome Initiative on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence” published in 2020. Archbishop Paglia stressed the necessity of adopting an ethical perspective in evaluating the products of human knowledge, while reaffirming the Church’s tradition of upholding human dignity and the care of creation.
Furthermore, the Archbishop cautioned against the temptation to view technology as a new religion and urged the scientific community to prioritize the ethical use of technology. He emphasized that technology should serve humanity and not control it, while urging for a reassertion of human agency in leading technology.
In line with its commitment to advancing societal well-being, the Pontifical Academy of Life Sciences will also hold the “Guardian of Life” Award Ceremony, where this year’s recipient, Marie Guerda Coicou, a Haitian anesthesiologist specializing in anesthesia and resuscitation, will be honored for her contributions to the field.
As the Assembly unfolds, the Academy aims to contribute to the Church and society by publishing accounts of its activities in the coming months. For more information, visit www.vaticannews.cn.