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Pope Francis Uses Tolkien to Critique AI in New Encyclical

publication · 2026-05-27

Pope Francis has published an encyclical on artificial intelligence that references J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, a pointed move against tech billionaires who often misinterpret the series. The document, issued by the Vatican, draws on Tolkien's themes of power and creation to question the unchecked development of AI. The Pope's use of the fantasy epic is seen as an expert troll of Silicon Valley leaders who have co-opted Tolkien's work to justify their technological ambitions. The encyclical does not name specific individuals but is widely interpreted as a critique of figures like Peter Thiel and other tech moguls who admire Tolkien. The Vatican has not commented on the intended targets. The document was released in 2024 and has sparked discussion among theologians and tech commentators.

Key facts

  • Pope Francis published an encyclical on AI referencing The Lord of the Rings.
  • The encyclical critiques tech billionaires who misinterpret Tolkien.
  • The document was issued by the Vatican in 2024.
  • The Pope's use of Tolkien is seen as a critique of Silicon Valley leaders.
  • The encyclical does not name specific individuals.
  • Peter Thiel is among the tech figures who admire Tolkien.
  • The document has sparked discussion among theologians and tech commentators.
  • The Vatican has not commented on the intended targets.

Entities

Artists

  • J.R.R. Tolkien

Institutions

  • Vatican
  • Wired

Sources