In a significant move towards ethical AI use, Cisco Systems’ CEO, Chuck Robbins, recently signed the Vatican’s artificial intelligence ethics pledge. This commitment underscores the growing importance of ethical considerations in the development and deployment of AI technologies.
Robbins met privately with Pope Francis before signing the “Rome Call for AI Ethics,” a document initiated by the Pontifical Academy for Life and previously endorsed by tech leaders like Microsoft’s Brad Smith and IBM’s John Kelly III.
The “Rome Call” emphasizes the concept of “algor-ethics,” stressing the ethical use of AI guided by principles such as transparency, inclusion, accountability, and privacy. It aligns with the U.N. Universal Declaration of Human Rights, advocating for the protection of human dignity and rights in AI applications.
Furthermore, the document highlights the necessity for technological advancement to serve humanity’s well-being and environmental sustainability. It emphasizes inclusivity, human-centric design, and ecological responsibility as essential pillars of progress.
Robbins expressed Cisco’s commitment to these principles, emphasizing the importance of trust in technology to create an inclusive future. This endorsement reflects a broader industry acknowledgment of the need for ethical guidelines in AI development and deployment.
The Vatican’s involvement in AI ethics predates the mainstream attention to the topic, with discussions dating back to 2016. In April 2021, Pope Francis established the RenAIssance Foundation to promote ethical reflection on emerging technologies, including AI.
The Pope’s 2024 peace message further underscores the urgency of ethical AI governance, advocating for international cooperation to regulate AI development and use. This aligns with the Vatican’s ongoing efforts to ensure that AI serves the common good while respecting human dignity and the environment.
Overall, Robbins’ endorsement of the Vatican’s AI ethics pledge signals a significant step towards fostering responsible AI practices within the tech industry and beyond.
