The world is moving fast. Artificial intelligence and the chips that power it are transforming every aspect of our lives. In South Korea, an economist proposed using the enormous profits of giants like Samsung and SK hynix to create a welfare fund, similar to Norway's oil fund. The idea sparked debate, but for us Christians, it raises a deeper question: how can we ensure that technological progress does not increase inequality, but becomes a tool for solidarity?
The Bible reminds us that every gift comes from God and must be shared. In the book of Deuteronomy we read: "For the poor will never cease in the land; therefore I command you, 'You shall open wide your hand to your brother, to the needy and to the poor in your land'" (Deuteronomy 15:11, ESV). This ancient word resonates powerfully in the age of digital giants.
The Risk of Progress Without a Heart
When profit becomes the sole driver, technology risks creating new forms of poverty. Less skilled workers are replaced, small businesses struggle to compete, and wealth concentrates in a few hands. The prophet Amos denounced this three thousand years ago: "Hear this, you who trample on the poor and make the needy of the land to fail" (Amos 8:4, ESV). Today, "trampling" can be more subtle: algorithms that discriminate, platforms that exploit, monopolies that suffocate.
The Korean proposal to redistribute AI profits is a sign of the times. It invites us to ask: how can we, as a Christian community, promote ethical use of technology? It is not just about charity, but about building just structures. Pope Francis, before his death, repeatedly called attention to the need for an economy that puts the person at the center. And his successor, Leo XIV, continues this path, encouraging dialogue between faith and innovation.
Norway's Example: A Model for the Common Good
Norway's sovereign wealth fund, born from oil revenues, has allowed the country to invest in education, health, and infrastructure for all. It is an example of how an extraordinary resource can become a common good. In South Korea, the idea of a similar fund for chip profits could fund training programs for unemployed workers, scholarships for youth, and services for the elderly. The Church can support these initiatives, reminding us that wealth is a gift to be administered responsibly.
"Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required; and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more" (Luke 12:48, ESV).
Technology as Service, Not as Idol
We often tend to see technology as an end, not a means. We are fascinated by its potential, but we forget that it must be at the service of humanity. Jesus taught us not to store up treasures on earth, but to invest in the Kingdom of God (Matthew 6:19-21). This does not mean rejecting progress, but using it wisely.
Tech companies have a great responsibility. They can choose to reinvest profits in research for the common good, adopt fair labor practices, and reduce environmental impact. As consumers and citizens, we can support those that demonstrate ethics and transparency. And as a faith community, we can be a prophetic voice, calling institutions not to forget the poor.
A Call to Individual and Collective Responsibility
We cannot wait for governments alone to solve the problem. Every Christian is called to live out solidarity in daily life. Buying products from companies that respect workers, supporting cooperatives and social enterprises, participating in digital literacy projects for the marginalized: these concrete actions build a more just world. Artificial intelligence can be a powerful tool for good, but only if we guide it with Christian values.
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