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Archbishop says AI should 'serve not diminish humanity'

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally, has urged policymakers and technology companies to ensure that artificial intelligence serves humanity rather than diminishing it. Speaking during a House of Lords debate on AI, she warned that current regulation is not sufficient to prevent harmful uses of the rapidly developing technology. Drawing on the biblical truth that humanity is created with God-given dignity and value, Archbishop Sarah highlighted both the opportunities and dangers presented by AI. She welcomed its potential benefits in areas such as healthcare and medical research, while expressing concern about evidence that some AI chatbots are facilitating harmful and abusive content, including material that could normalise violence against women and girls. She called for a 'pro-human framework' which places people ahead of profit and technological advancement. She also raised concerns about the impact of AI on employment, critical thinking, democracy and public trust. Her remarks echo growing international discussions about how AI can be developed responsibly and ethically.