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.
Dennis Stevens, Ed.D.
Dr. Dennis Stevens is a transdisciplinary innovator and thought leader working at the intersection of art, design, science, technology, and community development. With over 20 years of experience, he combines his unique background in fine arts, military service, and education to address complex global challenges through multiple ventures and initiatives.
Current Roles & Ventures
HEGEMONACO - Founder
Building on his seminal work Redefining Craft, which examines the hybrid intersections of art, craft, and design, Dr. Stevens established HEGEMONACO to advance the critical discourse on AI governance. Here, we examine how democracy, ideological divides, and power dynamics in AI development impact human agency and civil liberties.
Penelope Mimetics LLC - Founder and Research Lead
Penelope Mimetics is a B2B innovation company that transforms breakthrough ideas into sustainable commercial solutions. Through our comprehensive R&D infrastructure and flexible commercialization strategies, including licensing, direct sales, and strategic alliances, we develop proprietary technologies and new brands that create lasting value for our partners.
Conway Cultural Development Corporation - Founder and Managing Director
Through the founding of this 501(c)(3) organization, Dr. Stevens has led creative placemaking endeavors that integrate arts, culture, and economic development to drive community revitalization.
Areas of Expertise
AI-driven biomimetic innovation and sustainable technology
Ethical AI governance and democratic implications
Cross-disciplinary biotechnology and precision fermentation
Community empowerment and creative placemaking
Synthetic biology and advanced materials research
Education
Ed.D. in Art and Art Education, Teachers College, Columbia University
M.A. in Instructional Technology, San Jose State University
B.F.A., Clemson University
Former Gunner's Mate (E-5), U.S. Coast Guard
Notable Achievements
Developing AI-enabled, IP-focused discoveries
Pioneer in green chemistry alternatives to petroleum-derived products
Author of Wikipedia's first working definition of ordered liberty; the balanced relationship between individual freedom and necessary social order— a concept embedded in the Constitution and Bill of Rights, recognizing that some constraints on individual behavior are necessary to protect the rights and freedoms of all.
NSF Innovation Corps program participant
Leader in synthetic biology research for sustainable manufacturing
Dennis Stevens, Ed.D. excels at identifying unexpected connections between disparate fields, translating complex concepts across disciplinary boundaries, and driving transformative change. His work consistently bridges the gaps between art, design, technology, sustainability, and society, fostering meaningful dialogue on the complex challenges of our rapidly evolving world.
