Cooperative Futures Institute

Twenty years ago, I gave a TED talk calling for an interdisciplinary study of cooperation. Fifteen years ago, I taught an online introduction to cooperation studies (complete syllabus and links to videos of lectures, live discussions here). Now the University of Arizona accounces the inauguration of the Cooperative Futures Institute. (Collection of my cooperation theory posts here.)

Who We Are

We are an interdisciplinary team of cooperative science experts including researchers, facilitators, and creators who are dedicated to applying cooperation science to real-world challenges. Our backgrounds span psychology, computer science, economics and business, anthropology, public engagement, media, and game design. Together, we’ve led multi-year, multi-site research projects, developed interactive experiences for communities, and built partnerships across industry, government, and the public. The Cooperative Futures Institute is our next step: a launchpad for turning this knowledge into impact and action.

Our Vision

Our vision is a future where technology, particularly AI systems, help us to build more cooperative relationships, communities and institutions. We believe autonomy and self-reliance are strongest when paired with connection and cooperation - and we’re building the tools, technology, partnerships, and experiences to make that a reality.