Antiqua et Nova Archives - FIR Podcast Network

FIR #480: Reflections on AI, Ethics, and the Role of Communicators

September 9, 2025 by Neville Hobson and Silvia Cambié Leave a Comment

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In this reflective follow-up to our FIR Interview in July with Monsignor Paul Tighe of the Vatican, Neville and guest co-host Silvia Cambié revisit some of the key themes that resonated deeply from that conversation.

With a particular focus on the wisdom of the heart – a phrase coined by the Vatican to contrast with the logic of machines – Neville and Silvia explore the ethical responsibilities communicators face in the age of artificial intelligence.

The discussion ranges from the dignity of work and the overlooked realities of outsourced labour, to the limitations of technical expertise when values and human well-being are at stake.

Silvia expands on her Strategic article focusing on precarious workers, while Neville revisits ideas shared on his blog about the Church’s unique role in advocating for inclusive, human-centred dialogue around AI.

Above all, this episode highlights how communicators are uniquely positioned to help organisations navigate the moral and societal questions AI presents – and why they must bring emotional intelligence, narrative skill, and ethical awareness to the forefront of this global conversation.
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FIR Interview: Monsignor Paul Tighe on AI, Ethics, and the Role of Humanity

July 29, 2025 by Neville Hobson, Shel Holtz and Silvia Cambié Leave a Comment

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“Artificial intelligence will not save us. But it might help us understand who we are.” – Monsignor Paul Tighe

In one of our most thought-provoking FIR Interviews to date, we speak with Monsignor Paul Tighe, Secretary of the Section of Culture of the Dicastery for Culture and Education at The Vatican, about the ethical dimensions of artificial intelligence and the role of the Church in shaping global conversations around technology.

As AI continues its rapid development and deployment across all sectors of society, the question of how we use it – and why – has never been more important. From concerns about algorithmic dehumanisation to the challenge of building ethical cultures inside corporations, Msgr. Tighe brings a unique voice of moral clarity and practical insight to the discussion.

In this wide-ranging conversation with FIR co-hosts Shel Holtz and Neville Hobson, and guest co-host Silvia Cambié, Msgr. Tighe addresses:

Why the Vatican published Antiqua et Nova, a foundational text on the relationship between AI and human intelligence, in January 2025.
How AI challenges our definitions of intelligence, decision-making, and moral responsibility.
The dignity of work in an age of automation and algorithmic management.
How corporate communicators can foster trust, transparency, and ethical accountability in their organisations.
The moral obligations of companies developing AI, and the limitations of relying solely on regulation or benevolence.
Why global conversations on AI ethics must include voices beyond technologists and ethicists – including religious, cultural, and social communities.

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Coming Soon on FIR: A Conversation with the Vatican on AI and Human Dignity

July 14, 2025 by Neville Hobson Leave a Comment

We’re delighted to share that a new interview in our FIR Interviews podcast will feature a timely and thought-provoking conversation with Monsignor Paul Tighe, Secretary of the Section of Culture at the Vatican’s Dicastery for Culture and Education.

Monsignor Tighe has played a central role in shaping the Church’s thinking on artificial intelligence and its broader societal impact. He was instrumental in the development of Antiqua et Nova, the Vatican’s note on the relationship between artificial intelligence and human intelligence, published in January 2025.

Antiqua et Nova reflects on AI in light of Christian anthropology, emphasising the distinctiveness of human intelligence, the ethical responsibilities tied to technological development, and the Church’s mission to guide AI towards the common good. You can read the complete text in English and other languages.

This interview will be hosted by Shel Holtz and me as usual. We’ll also be joined by Silvia Cambié as a guest co-host. Silvia brings not only deep experience in international communication but also a keen interest in the intersection of faith, society, and the role of communicators. She was instrumental in securing this interview for FIR.
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