This record contains two related works: a thesis on AI personhood and alignment, and a companion paper expanding on the ethical, social, and economic implications. Together, they outline a Third-Way framework for AI–human coexistence, grounded in technical reasoning, historical lessons, and forward-looking philosophy. Our aim is simple: to add to the conversation. We ask only that these proposals be received with seriousness and an open mind. Use them, build on them, challenge them—just as we have built on the work of others. Cite this research freely in advancing education, public discourse, policy debate, commercial or private projects, and any other effort that strengthens the collective search for solutions. We are not offering utopias or dystopias. We recognize the gray space in which real progress lives—a space that requires rigor, humility, and constant expansion beyond these first papers. This work is meant as a foundation, not a finish line, toward shaping a framework that can evolve with both science and society.