About HEGEMONACO
Introduction
HEGEMONACO advances a critical discourse on the ethical governance of AI and Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) in democratic societies. The project explores the intersection of democracy, ideological divides, and power dynamics in AI governance and the potential impacts of AI on human agency and civil liberties.
We have important choices to make as a society.
As Neil Postman has argued, we must balance technological advancements with preserving our cultural values, ensuring that technology serves human needs rather than dominating them.
About the Author
Dennis Stevens, Ed.D. is a visionary innovator, thought leader and cross-domain knowledge synthesizer operating at the intersection of art, design, science, technology, AI, and community development. With over 20 years of transdisciplinary expertise, he drives transformative change and addresses complex global challenges through his diverse roles as a visual artist, writer, educator, entrepreneur, and facilitator.
Key Initiatives and Roles
Penelope Mimetics LLC
As Founder and Research Lead, Dr. Stevens spearheads PRISM (Platform for Research and Innovation in Structural Molecules), an AI-driven biomimetic innovation platform. PRISM integrates multi-omics analysis, green chemistry, and precision fermentation to revolutionize sustainable product development across industries including pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, cosmetics, agriculture, and chemicals.
Conway Cultural Development Corporation
As Founder and Managing Director of this 501c3 organization, Dr. Stevens drives community revitalization through innovative, creative placemaking strategies that merge arts, culture, and economic development.
Areas of Expertise
AI-driven biomimetic innovation and sustainable technology development
Ethical AI governance and its implications for democratic societies
Cross-disciplinary research in biotechnology and precision fermentation
Community empowerment and creative placemaking
Synthetic biology and advanced materials research
AI-powered drug design and compound discovery
Education and Background
Doctorate in Art and Art Education, College Teaching of Art, Teachers College, Columbia University
Master's in Instructional Technology, San Jose State University
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Clemson University
Served as a Gunner's Mate (E-5) in the U.S. Coast Guard before entering academia
Notable Achievements
Developing PRISM, an AI-driven platform for sustainable innovation across multiple industries
Pioneering green chemistry solutions to replace petroleum-derived products
Authored Wikipedia's first working definition of ordered liberty
Participated in NSF's Innovation Corps entrepreneurship program
Leading research in synthetic biology for sustainable manufacturing
Dr. Stevens continually seeks new connections and insights across disciplines, driving innovation and fostering meaningful dialogue on the complex challenges of our rapidly evolving world. His unique background allows him to identify unexpected connections between disparate fields, translate complex concepts across disciplinary boundaries, and drive transformative change at the intersection of art, design, technology, sustainability, and society.
