The commercial underpinnings of the internet, which are fantastic in every respect, kind of don’t necessarily have a requirement for things to be factually correct.” – Tony Ageh
The latest episode of ADAPT Radio examines the growing need for a civic digital infrastructure as artificial intelligence accelerates concerns around trust, accountability, and the quality of online information.
As commercial incentives continue to shape much of the modern internet, platforms are often designed to maximise user engagement rather than promote factual accuracy or serve the public interest. Against this backdrop, the programme explores how a more civic-oriented digital ecosystem could help create a safer, more trustworthy online environment.
Joining the discussion are Tony Ageh, Executive Director of dotPublic and Adjunct Assistant Professor at Trinity College Dublin, Jake Berger, Programme Director at dotPublic, and Professor Dave Lewis, Professor of Computer Science at Trinity College Dublin. Together, they examine why establishing reliable digital infrastructure is becoming increasingly important in the age of generative AI.
The conversation considers how governance frameworks can be developed to protect users and support the public good, rather than relying on business models built around the collection and monetisation of personal data. Drawing on the analogy of clean water systems, the guests discuss the need for trusted information environments that can be clearly distinguished from the commercial noise that dominates much of today’s digital landscape.
Tony Ageh is Executive Director of dotPublic and an Adjunct Assistant Professor at Trinity College Dublin. He has extensive experience in public service media, digital preservation, and the development of public-interest digital services.
Jake Berger serves as Programme Director at dotPublic, where he focuses on digital service design, institutional accountability, and the future of civic technology.
Professor Dave Lewis is Professor of Computer Science at Trinity College Dublin and leads research in AI ethics, trustworthy systems, and digital governance.
ADAPT Radio is available on SoundCloud, iTunes, and Spotify.
