

Mike Berners-Lee: Why dishonesty is destroying the planet
Apr 3, 2025
In this discussion, Mike Berners-Lee, a professor and climate researcher, examines how dishonesty in politics, business, and media hampers efforts to address crises like climate change and social inequality. He emphasizes the need for a cultural shift towards valuing honesty, warning that without accountability, our biggest challenges only become harder to resolve. The conversation tackles post-truth politics, the impact of misinformation, and the importance of integrity in media, urging individuals to promote ethical practices for a sustainable future.
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Deceit as Abuse
- Deceit, especially in politics, media, and business, should be treated as a serious form of abuse.
- This cultural shift is necessary to address global crises effectively.
Boris Johnson Example
- Despite documented instances of dishonesty, Boris Johnson was elected, demonstrating public tolerance for deceit.
- This highlights the challenge of convincing people that lying is harmful.
Truth and Decision-Making
- Truth is crucial for effective decision-making, especially given the complexity of current global challenges.
- Deceit hinders this process and prevents us from addressing critical issues.