School of Information 7th Annual Ethics and Technology Forum

For the 7th Annual Ethics & Technology Forum, we return to the topic of AI with Caroline De Cock, author of AI Tools, Not Gods (BTF Press, 2026). From the “gold rush” of investors to the “doomsday” warnings of tech prophets, our understanding of Artificial Intelligence has been hijacked by science fiction. We treat algorithms like magic, swing wildly between panic and FOMO, and defer to unelected tech CEOs as if they were saving the world. The result? “Policy Hallucinations”: laws that chase shadows while the real problems like bias, labor rights, and corporate accountability go unaddressed.

Join Caroline De Cock to discover her book, AI Tools, Not Gods. In this insightful and empowering session, Caroline will dismantle the four powerful myths: Magic, Madness, Heaven, and Sin that distort our reality. She offers a sober, evidence-based blueprint to move us from an “Age of Enchantment” to a mature framework of accountability.

Pick Your Team: when registering, we invite you to identify which “myth” currently dominates your relationship with AI. Feel free to reflect your choice in your outfit or accessories. Whether it’s a touch of sparkle or a bold statement piece:

• Team Magic: “I’m Fascinated.” You marvel at how AI seems to “understand” you and do things that feel impossible. You enjoy the mystery of the tech. (Style Inspiration: Sparkles, Shimmer, or Metallics).
• Team Madness: “I’m Overwhelmed.” You feel the pressure of the “AI Gold Rush.” You are swinging between “I need to use this now!” and “This is moving too fast!” (Style Inspiration: Chaotic prints, Bold Red, or mismatched items).
• Team Heaven: “I’m Optimistic.” You believe technology is the key to a better future. You hope AI will be the savior that fixes climate change and cures diseases. (Style Inspiration: All White, Gold, or ethereal/angelic fabrics).
• Team Sin: “I’m Skeptical.” You worry about the cost of this technology. You see AI as a potential villain that threatens jobs, creativity, and human connection. (Style Inspiration: Dark tones, Leather, or a rebellious edge).

The dress code is optional, but guests are encouraged (not required) to dress according to their “Team” (Magic, Madness, Heaven, or Sin).

Note: you can download her book AI Tools, Not Gods for free on the book website.

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About Caroline De Cock

Caroline De Cock, LL.M., is Head of Research at information labs and Senior Fellow at the Lisbon Council. A long-time strategist at the intersection of technology, law, and AI governance, she has spent over two decades shaping EU and global digital policy. She specializes in translating complex issues in AI, media, copyright, and Internet governance into accessible insights for policymakers and the public. Caroline is also the Founder of Square-up Agency and N-square Consulting, which advises global technology and civil society organizations. Having lived in 11 countries across four continents, she brings a uniquely global perspective to regulation. Her book, AI Tools, Not Gods, was published in January 2026.

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About the Ethics & Technology Forum

As New York evolves to become a major tech hub, and more students seek employment in technology companies, the School of Information must not only teach the knowledge and skills students need, but also imbue students with an ability to be critical, reflective, and thoughtful about their role and their employers’ roles in the world. The annual School of Information Ethics and Technology Forum brings thought leaders to discuss the most pressing issues on this topic with the Pratt Institute community. Past speakers include Karen Hao, Samuel Woolley, Meredith Broussard, Tim Wu, Sherry Turkle and Cliff Kuang.

Welcome By

Anthony Cocciolo, Dean of the School of Information at Pratt Institute.

Introduced By

Frances Bronet is the 12th President of Pratt Institute.

Talk followed by wine and hors d’oeuvre reception.

This event is open to the public, and RSVP is forthcoming.