AI, Media, and the New Rules of Trust

In this interview, John Wihbey reflects on his journey from Bowdoin College to becoming a leading voice at the intersection of media, technology, and AI. Drawing from his book Governing Babel, he explores how the rise of generative AI is reshaping journalism, public discourse, and the way information spreads in society.

The conversation delves into pressing challenges such as misinformation, declining public trust, and the growing influence of large technology platforms, while also examining historical parallels in media regulation. Wihbey offers a balanced perspective—highlighting both the risks and the opportunities of AI—while advocating for thoughtful, “light-touch” governance and greater responsibility from platforms.

Blending ethics with practical insights, the interview provides a nuanced look at how we might navigate this rapidly evolving landscape while preserving the core values of truth, accountability, and democratic communication.

Follow the link to read the full interview and explore these ideas in depth.