OpenOpenAI and Alternate Altman: Democratizing the Future of AI through Speculative Participatory Media

In an era where tech leaders wield unprecedented influence over the trajectory of artificial intelligence, this paper explores a radical reimagining of AI governance through speculative design and interactive media. We introduce "OpenOpenAI," an interactive web platform where "Alternate Altmans"—AI-driven personas with distinct visions for the future and ethical frameworks—serve as avatars for public discourse on AI’s future. Participants engage in dialogues, vote on directions, and witness simulated consequences of their decisions in the form of a simulated keynote presentation from Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, collectively shaping the narrative of technological evolution. This work critiques the concentration of power in the tech industry, advocating for a democratized approach to AI development that harnesses the diverse perspectives of global citizens. Through this experimental platform, we aim to foster public engagement and ignite conversations about the future of democracy and technology.