United States of AI Ethical Policy - The Myth of Momentum

A Civic Brief from Future in Common

Part of the series: “The United States of AI: An Ethical Policy Platform for American Workers”

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What This Brief Covers:

We’ve been told that the rise of AI is unstoppable—that the only choice is to move fast or fall behind.

But that story isn’t true. And it isn’t neutral.

This brief breaks down the illusion of AI “momentum” and challenges the false urgency driving today’s policy paralysis. It reveals how narratives of inevitability are being used to shut down public debate, protect private power, and override democracy itself. If we want a future that works for people, we need to reclaim the pace—and purpose—of innovation.

What You’ll Learn:

• How the myth of momentum is shaping U.S. AI policy

• Why “go fast or get left behind” serves tech elites—not the public

• The difference between innovation speed and democratic readiness

• How we can redirect the story—and the stakes—of the AI era

Who It’s For:

• Voters and civic educators navigating AI hype and headlines

• Journalists, organizers, and changemakers pushing for transparency

• Policymakers and advisors seeking people-first alternatives

• Anyone skeptical of the race narrative surrounding AI

Why It Matters:

The myth of momentum hides a deeper truth: We still have choices. But only if we act now.

The future is not inevitable—it’s contested. And the clock is ticking.

Download includes:

PDF of the full civic brief formatted for easy sharing.

License & Use

This brief is copyrighted © 2025 by Deion Lemelle / Future in Common.

The ideas are meant to be shared, adapted, and built upon.

Please do not republish the full document without permission.

You’re welcome to cite, quote, or use the concepts with attribution.