Governing AI Proactively: Cooperative Models of Anticipation and Accountability

Abstract

This research investigates how cooperatives and marginalized communities can lead in governing AI systems by drawing on traditions of economic democracy and collective accountability. Through case studies in Detroit’s food justice movement and the Mondragón Corporation, I explore how these groups anticipate the social impacts of AI and co-design governance models rooted in their values. Moving beyond risk-based approaches, this work proposes a framework for anticipatory governance that redistributes power in technology development and centers community-led innovation.