News
Governing AI: How Government Can Adapt to Rapid Technological Change
Source: maxwell.syr.edu
Published on October 11, 2025
Updated on October 11, 2025
The Role of AI in Government Adaptation
Governments worldwide are grappling with the challenge of adapting to rapid technological change, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI). A upcoming lecture at Syracuse University will delve into the complexities of AI governance and its impact on democracy, highlighting the need for responsive government systems in the digital age.
The event, titled "Governing AI: How Government Can Adapt to Rapid Technological Change," will feature insights from Jennifer Pahlka, author of "Recoding America." Pahlka, who served as Deputy Chief Technology Officer under President Obama and founded Code for America, will discuss the future of public institutions in an era dominated by digital transformation.
Understanding the Challenge
As technology advances at an unprecedented pace, governments often find themselves constrained by outdated systems that hinder progress. Pahlka's lecture will explore how these legacy systems can be modernized to better serve citizens and adapt to the changing technological landscape. She will also address the broader implications of AI on democracy, emphasizing the need for thoughtful governance to ensure that technological advancements benefit society as a whole.
"AI has the potential to revolutionize how governments operate, but it also presents significant challenges," Pahlka noted in a recent interview. "We need to ensure that our public institutions are equipped to handle these changes in a way that is both effective and ethical."
Event Details and Accessibility
The lecture will take place on October 29, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. EDT in Eggers Hall, Syracuse University. Sponsored by the Tanner Lecture Series and the Hicker Family Professorship, the event will be recorded and available on the Campbell Institute website for later viewing. Communication Access Real-time Translation (CART) will be provided, and additional accommodations can be requested by contacting Jackie Nocevski at Jjnocevs@syr.edu.
The Future of Public Institutions
Pahlka's lecture comes at a critical time, as governments around the world are increasingly recognizing the need to adapt to the digital age. By examining the intersection of AI and governance, the event aims to spark a conversation about how public institutions can evolve to meet the demands of the 21st century. As Pahlka puts it, "The future of our democracy depends on our ability to govern in a way that is responsive, inclusive, and forward-thinking.".