Two college students in the United States have developed a new artificial intelligence platform inspired by Catholic teachings, aiming to offer a faith-based and responsible approach to technology.
The platform, called Acutis AI, was created by brothers Peter and Thomas Cooney, students at the University of Dallas and Baylor University. The initiative seeks to provide answers rooted in Catholic morality, helping users find guidance they can trust.
The developers said they were concerned that many existing AI platforms present morally sensitive issues in a neutral way that may not align with Church teachings. They also warned that such tools can lead to dependency, especially among young users who may become emotionally attached to AI companions.
To address these concerns, Acutis AI has been built using key Church documents, including the Catechism of the Catholic Church and the Summa Theologica. The platform is designed to answer questions on faith and morals based on these sources, while general questions are handled through broader searches.
The platform also includes parental control features, allowing families to monitor usage, set time limits, and receive alerts about sensitive topics. This is intended to help parents guide their children in using technology responsibly.
The brothers believe artificial intelligence can be a helpful tool if used wisely, especially in education, such as creating study guides or quizzes. However, they stressed that AI should never replace critical thinking or real human relationships.
Inspired by Carlo Acutis, the project aims to show how technology can be used to serve faith and bring people closer to God.
