Beyond Borders: AI, Anarcho-Syndicalism, and the Cities of Tomorrow

​This masterclass explores the intersection of AI narratives and post-national urban futures, using the concepts of "Kiez" and anarcho-syndicalism as foundational elements. Participants will first delve into the various AI narratives identified in the research, such as "AI as a Technological Evolution," "AI & Human Dynamics," and "AI on a Societal Level," to understand how these stories shape our perception of AI and its potential impact on society. The class will then use these narratives as a springboard to imagine and draft possible futures for cities that transcend traditional national boundaries.

​In the second part of the masterclass, attendees will apply the concept of "Kiez" (a term that may refer to a form of decentralised urban organisation) and principles of anarcho-syndicalism to reimagine city governance and social structures. Participants will explore how AI could facilitate decentralised decision-making processes, worker-managed industries, and community-driven urban development in a post-national context. Through collaborative exercises and discussions, the class will draft speculative scenarios of future cities where AI systems support anarcho-syndicalist principles, potentially addressing issues such as resource allocation, democratic participation, and sustainable urban planning beyond the constraints of nation-states.