Dear reader,

These days, new technology is presented as inevitable and resistance is futile. Smartphones and social media for kids? It’s just how it is. Cynical about crypto? You must be a crackpot. Worried about AI slop? Get on board or get left behind. 

At The Conversation, we have always taken a sceptical approach to prevailing wisdom, and we’re determined to go about things our own way.

When many in the media were sacking specialist journalists in health, economics or science, we were hiring. When everyone was turning away from experts, we launched a media outlet that only works with academics. When others focused on personality in politics, we appointed an editor to help us do a better job of analysing public policy.

From day one, we have been different because we are guided by values, rather than trends or algorithms. And we will continue to stand out by putting people — real journalists, real editors, real experts — at the centre of what we do. 

At a time when others turn to automation, we’re doubling down on human insight. At a time when people are seeking profits in technological innovation, we’re a not-for-profit media organisation that exists to serve the public.

We take this approach because it’s in our DNA, and we know that you value it. Many of you write to us or respond to our surveys, and you tell us every year how much you appreciate our work, such as the eloquent reader who recently described The Conversation as a “lake of sanity amid mountains of clickbait.”

We’re proud of what we do, and with your support, we can continue to take the path less travelled. Please help us by becoming a monthly donor or making a one-off donation.

And thank you for reading us and supporting our efforts to create something different.

Kind regards, 

Misha Ketchell
Editor