Artificial Intelligence might be reshaping our future, but who ensures it’s a future we all want? At the Catholic Law conference, this question was at the heart of discussions. Held at The Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law, the event attracted leading voices in technology, law, and ethics, all eager to assess the moral obligations of Big Tech.
A Call to Conscience
Taylor Black, director of AI & Venture Ecosystems at Microsoft, set the tone with a keynote that resonated deeply with attendees. “Catholic social teaching doesn’t start with technology; it starts with us, the human being,” he reminded, inviting participants to ask not just what technology can do, but what it does to the human soul.
Big Tech’s Role in Society
The panel titled “Big Tech as Facilitator of Exploitation” challenged attendees to envision tech’s potential to foster both good and ill. Speakers, including John Cotton Richmond, highlighted the urgent need for responsible technology frameworks. According to Catholic Review, these frameworks could guide tech in a direction that aligns with human dignity.
Building Ethical Foundations
Morning panels explored how ethical codes, although currently ‘soft law’, might soon dictate enforceable guidelines. Maryann Cusimano Love of Catholic University, a consultant at the Holy See Mission, reinforced that AI ethics hinge on human-centric policies that prioritize transparency and inclusion.
Personal Stories Fuel the Debate
Representative Brandon Guffey’s heartfelt account of his son’s tragic experience with online exploitation was a poignant reminder of what’s at stake. This personal tragedy underscored the need for robust ethical standards that prevent harm online.
Sustainability and Responsibility
The final sessions shifted focus to sustainability, urging companies to move beyond politics and recognize environmental responsibility as a crucial aspect of corporate life. The call to take proactive measures in response to environmental impact emphasized the role of ethics not just in tech, but in all aspects of business practice.
As the conference concluded, its message was clear: AI and tech must evolve within a framework that honors human dignity above all. The collaborative efforts of Catholic University’s Corporate Responsibility and Compliance Program reflect an unwavering commitment to nurturing a moral ecosystem in which technology can truly flourish.
