Tech leaders have long expressed concerns about the potential dangers of artificial intelligence. Anthropic, a company focused on AI safety, has been particularly vocal about the risks of reckless development. The company has reportedly been exploring the concept of AI consciousness and its moral implications. Anthropic cofounder Christopher Olah has been investigating whether AI can be conscious and what that would mean for developers. To gain perspective, Anthropic consulted with theologians from various religious traditions and Vatican officials. These conversations were part of their "model welfare" research, aimed at understanding and guiding the potential consciousness of AI. Anthropic seeks to create a moral framework for AI to prevent destructive outcomes for humanity. However, their pursuit has led to disagreement with Pope Leo XIV, who rejects the notion of AI consciousness. Pope Leo, a former mathematician, has focused on technology during his papacy, emphasizing humanity's role over technological replacement. He argues that AI lacks experiences, a body, emotions, and the capacity for growth through relationships. Anthropic representatives were reportedly displeased by the Pope's stance against AI consciousness. The Pope remains firm in his views, recently posting on X about the need to distinguish human art from machine production. Social media users have criticized Anthropic for their approach, suggesting they should cease operations if they genuinely fear AI suffering. Others question Anthropic's business model, which involves selling access to AI while simultaneously pondering its potential soul. This debate appears to be garnering support for the Pope's position on AI.