Richard Lachman Examines Agency in the Age of AI

The new book by Toronto Metropolitan University professor Richard Lachman calls for intentionality in technology development.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Artificial Intelligence

Isometric editorial illustration of a heavy stack of blank papers on a pedestal, representing academic research on digital policy. — Toronto Metropolitan University professor Richard Lachman's new book calls for increased regulation and intentionality in the development of artificial intelligence. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should government and industry slow down AI development to prioritize public safety over rapid innovation?

In February 2026, Richard Lachman published Digital Wisdom: Agency in the Age of AI, a work urging for a more critical approach to technology. Lachman advocates for increased regulation and public scrutiny of the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence.

Why it matters

Lachman argues that slowing the pace of AI development is essential to prevent potential societal harm. He calls for a combination of individual and institutional choices to ensure technology serves the public interest.

Google, Apple, and Meta have confirmed sharing data from 6.9 million accounts with U.S. authorities. This data disclosure occurs in an environment where specific legislative frameworks for AI governance remain absent in Canada.

The players

Richard Lachman

He is a professor and the director of Zone Learning at Toronto Metropolitan University.

Google

This major technology company is one of the entities that shared user account data with U.S. authorities.

Apple

This technology corporation has been identified for sharing user account data with U.S. government entities.

The details

Lachman introduces the concept of Realtechnik as a framework to address problems stemming from new technologies. He argues that the shift from the early optimism of the 1990s necessitates a more cautious, regulated approach to modern digital tools.

February 2026: Richard Lachman released his book Digital Wisdom: Agency in the Age of AI.
January 2025: The proposed Artificial Intelligence and Data Act was officially terminated.
2023: ChatGPT was released, sparking a new era in AI development.
2022: The Artificial Intelligence and Data Act was originally proposed in Canada.
Mid 1990s: Richard Lachman held optimistic views regarding the development of the internet.

The Tech Race

The failure of the 2022 Artificial Intelligence and Data Act leaves Canada without a specific legislative framework for AI. This positions the country in a precarious spot as global tech giants continue to integrate advanced AI systems into everyday products.

Readers may face fewer protections regarding their digital data as major platforms continue to share information with foreign authorities. This underscores the need for users to be more intentional about their personal data footprints online.

The takeaway

Lachman suggests that intentional technology use is the primary defense against the negative consequences of unchecked development. Individuals are encouraged to critically evaluate how they integrate new AI tools into their personal and professional routines.