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.

Subscribe to HEGEMONACO

HEGEMONACO is dedicated to deepening the understanding of the ethical and political challenges in governing AI and Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) within democratic societies.

People

Dr. Dennis Stevens is an artist, writer, educator, facilitator of knowledge, and a creative catalyst who connects knowledge across disciplinary boundaries; learn more at https://dennis-stevens.com