TORONTO – CBC News recently aired a segment focusing on the growing concerns surrounding big tech monopolies, the development of artificial intelligence, and potential policy changes related to copyright law. The broadcast featured an interview with Canadian science fiction author and internet expert Cory Doctorow.

Doctorow on Big Tech's Evolution

Doctorow outlined a three-stage evolution of big tech companies, stating they initially focused on serving customers, then shifted to prioritizing sponsors, and ultimately serving their own interests. He argued that current policy environments incentivize negative behavior, leading to intrusive tracking, ad-skewed search results, and algorithm-driven social media feeds. He cited the example of the OG app, an alternative Instagram client that was quickly shut down by Meta (Facebook) despite its popularity, as evidence of tech companies suppressing user choice.

Copyright Law and Economic Leverage

Doctorow proposed that reforming Canada’s copyright laws could provide the country with economic leverage. He suggested allowing reverse engineering and the creation of complementary products, using the example of John Deere tractors, which are difficult for owners to repair without authorized software unlocks. He argued that Canada could become a supplier of repair solutions to American farmers, potentially offsetting retaliatory tariffs.

AI Concerns and Economic Risks

The broadcast also touched on the potential risks of artificial intelligence. While Doctorow dismissed fears of AI becoming sentient, he expressed concern about the financial instability of the seven companies that comprise 30% of the American stock market, which he believes are engaged in unsustainable financial practices. He predicted a potential economic crash that could surpass the 2008 financial crisis.

Hospital Implements AI for Staff Scheduling

In a separate segment, CBC News reported on a hospital implementing an artificial intelligence solution to streamline staff scheduling in the emergency department. The AI aims to reduce the seven hours currently spent daily on manual assignment creation to just minutes, freeing up educators and physicians to focus on patient care. The hospital hopes to scale the solution across other departments.