Does Innovation Remain at Risk

Each year I look forward to getting the results of the Edelman Trust Barometer. ?The 2025 results should be published soon. Looking back to the 2024 Edelman Trust Barometer it revealed a paradox at the heart of society: while rapid innovation promises a new era of prosperity, it also poses significant risks. This duality is reshaping public perception and trust in technology and institutions.

Innovation has always been a double-edged sword. On one hand, it drives economic growth, improves quality of life, and solves complex problems. On the other hand, it can lead to job displacement, privacy concerns, and ethical dilemmas. The 2024 Edelman Trust Barometer highlighted that while people appreciate the benefits of innovation, they are increasingly wary of its potential downsides.

One of the key findings was the growing concern over data privacy. As technology advances, the amount of personal data collected and analyzed skyrocketed. This led to fears about data breaches, surveillance, and misuse of information.

Another significant issue was the impact of automation and artificial intelligence on employment. While these technologies increase efficiency and productivity, they also threaten to displace millions of jobs. The barometer indicated that people were anxious about their future job security and called for policies ensuring a fair transition for workers.

Moreover, the ethical implications of innovation are under scrutiny. From genetic engineering to AI decision-making, the potential for misuse and unintended consequences is a major concern. The public is urging for robust ethical guidelines and regulations to govern the development and deployment of new technologies.

The 2024 Edelman Trust Barometer underscored the need for a balanced approach to innovation. While embracing technological advancements, it indicated the criticality in addressing the associated risks and building trust through transparency, accountability, and ethical practices.

I’m interested to know how leaders in business and government have done since this barometer was released last year. Has trust in innovation made a comeback? What are you as a leader doing to advance innovation in an ethical manner?

1.?????? Are you managing innovation implementation effectively?

a.?????? Mismanaged innovations are as likely to ignite backlash as advancing progress. Explain the science and manage impacts aggressively

2.?????? Have you actively partnered with stakeholders?

a.?????? Business is most trusted to introduce innovation. Take the effort to partner with employees and government to manage the impact of innovation ethically.

3.?????? Are you engaging in active discussions with stakeholders about innovation implementation?

a.?????? When people are engaged in having control of how innovations affect their lives, they are more likely to embrace and advocate for the innovation, not resist them. Listen to concerns, openly