In this engaging conversation, Rachel Botsman, trust expert and Oxford lecturer, and Helen Margetts, a professor specializing in internet impact, explore the complexities of trust in today’s world. They delve into how the internet has transformed traditional trust dynamics, emphasizing the importance of discerning reliable information amidst rampant misinformation. The discussion also touches on the evolution of trust in currencies, particularly with the rise of cryptocurrencies, and examines the societal implications of skepticism towards institutions and experts.

Helen Margetts, a leading expert on society and the internet, Cosmina Dorobantu, co-director at the Alan Turing Institute, and Jonathan Bright, head of AI safety, discuss the transformative potential of AI in public services. They explore how AI can enhance efficiency while tackling concerns about equity and historical tech failures. The conversation touches on the importance of automating decisions, the risks of bias in AI, and the pressing need for gender representation in tech. Together, they emphasize a balanced approach to integrating AI that prioritizes public benefit.