Past Futures’ position on A.I.

The following position on AI has been drafted by Past Futures founder Alexander Dirksen: 

Inspired by a growing number of individuals and organisations critically questioning the value and risks that AI poses, and with mounting evidence of the impacts of AI on people and planet, Past Futures has taken the following position on its use of A.I. in its work and offerings: 

I believe that “ethical AI” does not exist. The social and ecological impacts are simply too great to ignore, and run counter both to the values I look to embody through my work and to the world I look to contribute to through the efforts of Past Futures. Beyond the work of Past Futures, I call for comprehensive regulation and oversight of the use of A.I., stronger environmental protections that can be used to protect communities and Country from data centers, and meaningful tax reform that acknowledges the wealth being generated for a select few through growing investment into A.I. 

Wherever possible, A.I. will not be used in the work of Past Futures. This includes switching off optional A.I. features in the professional products I use (such as Google Apps for Business) and not maintaining accounts on any A.I. platforms. I recognise that A.I.-powered platforms and technology are increasingly ubiquitous, and that my work will inevitably interact with A.I. in some way (including through collaboration with others, who may hold a different viewpoint or position on its usage). But by being intentional and mindful around its presence in my practice, I hope to limit its reach into my offerings as a consultancy. 

I recognise the privilege that comes in this position. Many are working within organisations who have an expectation of A.I. usage by their employees, or are facing a job market in which A.I. has already begun to limit pathways and possibilities. By joining a growing conversation around the use of A.I., I hope to contribute to increased awareness and action to protect the rights of workers, and of those about to embark on their careers.  

What does this mean for your collaboration with Past Futures?

• When you work with Past Futures, you’re working with a real human - someone who cares deeply about you and the good work you’re trying to do in the world. I move at human speed - building trust and relationship, understanding you and your context, and responding to the needs and dynamics of the given moment. Our work together will be guided by conversations - not prompts. 

• When you work with Past Futures, you’re working with someone who draws from over a decade of personal experience across impact efforts - not a skimming of content you can find online. The work I do is personalised to you and your organisation, and reflects my best efforts to provide you something insightful, actionable and hopeful. I recognise that this isn’t the fastest or most efficient way of working, but that’s the point - I bring care and consideration to every project, producing things that I can stand behind as meaningful offerings rather than “one size fits all” outputs. 

• And when you work with Past Futures, you’re not fuelling the limitless appetite of Silicon Valley venture capitalists (perhaps just the limitless appetite for soy flat whites of the person who wrote this position statement).

Last Updated: February 2026