Pope Francis and Semioethics: "The Net," Neighborliness, and Dialogic Conversion.

This article analyzes the convergence between Pope Francis's dialogic ethics and the framework of semioethics—a value-oriented, critical approach to the study of signs focused on care for life—particularly through the metaphors of "the net" (networks) and "neighborliness." Drawing on Pope Francis's 48th and 53rd World Communications Day Messages, the essay explores his critique of global communication systems, especially digitally mediated networks, which often foster indifference, isolation, and opposition rather than authentic dialogue. Pope Francis advocates for a "new, authentic culture of encounter" grounded in existential dialogue, solidarity, and responsibility to the Other, exemplified by his rhetorical use of the Good Samaritan parable to illustrate neighborly love as a form of ethical communication. The article situates Francis's vision within semioethics' emphasis on dialogic interrelations, intercorporeality, and the ethical imperative to overcome indifferent difference, proposing that his communication ethics enact a semioethical praxis aimed at transforming fragmented, monologic networks into relational, dialogic communities committed to mutual flourishing.