• Explores the concept of trust; a key social and cultural issue
• Draws on a range of disciplines to show how trust is at the centre of many concepts, including biology, psychology, and even game theory
• Reflects on the nature and importance of trust - why do we value it? why do we want to be trusted, rather than distrusted?
• Explores the practical and personal consequences of trusting and being trusted
• Considers the evolutionary aspects of trust and its impacts

 
Trust is indispensable, yet it can be dangerous. Without trusting others, we cannot function in society, or even stay alive for very long, but being overly-trustful can be a bad strategy too. Trust is pragmatic, but it also has a moral dimension: trustworthiness is a virtue, and well-placed trust benefits us all. 

In this Very Short Introduction, Katherine Hawley explores the key ideas about trust and distrust. Considerings questions such as 'Why do we value trust?' and Why do we want to be trusted rather than distrusted?', Hawley raises issues about the importance of trust in both the personal and public spheres, including family and relationships as well as politics and society.