Trent alumnus and past Chancellor Dr. Don Tapscott ’66, LL.D. (hon) C.M., one of the world’s leading authorities on technology and innovation, has released a new book, You to the Power of Two, a timely piece of work that introduces the concept of “identic AI” - personal AI agents that will become active participants in our world.  

With co-author Joseph M. Bradley, Dr. Tapscott writes how these intelligent companions promise to streamline daily tasks, enhance wellbeing, and offer lifelong learning. For professionals, they will amplify creativity, boost productivity, and expand human potential. With extraordinary promise also comes profound risk, to individuals, businesses, and society itself. 

“AI is no longer just a tool - it’s becoming a partner in our lives,” Dr. Tapscott shared. “This book is about helping people embrace that change with confidence and purpose, ensuring technology serves humanity rather than the other way around.” 

That future is taking shape at Trent through the new Artificial Intelligence degree program, designed to prepare students for the complex ethical, technical, and societal challenges of AI. Offered as both a B.A. and B.Sc., the program blends theory with application, and covers machine learning, algorithms, ethics, cognition, and the social implications of AI. Students can also choose a co-op option for hands-on experience and even pursue an AI-Business joint major, positioning them at the intersection of technology and strategy. 

With AI transforming careers, healthcare, education, and relationships, Trent graduates will be ready to lead in this new era, one that Dr. Tapscott calls “the age of identic AI.” 

“Don’s leadership and vision have shaped how technology impacts business and society,” said Julie Davis, vice-president of External Relations & Development at Trent University. “His new book reflects the same values we strive to instill in our graduates - adaptability, curiosity, and a commitment to shaping a better future.” 

A celebrated author, his 1992 bestseller Paradigm Shift and 1995 classic The Digital Economy established Dr. Tapscott as a leading voice on digital transformation, introducing terms like “net generation” and “digital divide.” This is his first book since his 2016 hit Blockchain Revolution: How the Technology Underlying Bitcoin is Changing Business, Money and the World written with his son, Alex Tapscott. Dr. Tapscott is also a member of the Order of Canada and joined the Thinkers50 Hall of Fame, previously being ranked the second most influential Management Thinker by Thinkers50 in 2019. 

Dr. Tapscott's new book has been featured in The Globe and Mail, Toronto Star and The AmberMac Show. 

Learn more about the Artificial Intelligence programs at Trent University Durham GTA.