The myth of connection

Monday 29th September 2025

18:00 – 19:00

RSA House and online via YouTube

With opportunities for digital connection at an all-time high, and loneliness now a public health emergency, are we truly more connected – or just more networked?

Join us in the RSA Great Room for a panel exploring whether technology is helping us form meaningful relationships, or simply keeping us online.

Journalist and founder of The Logging Off Club Adele Zeynep Walton shares a Gen Z perspective on stepping back from platforms to find real-world connection. Nicola Gunby, co-founder of friendship app Cliq, offers insight into designing tech that actually brings people together offline. Dr Tom Chatfield, author and tech philosopher, analyses our experiences and understanding of technology, with a particular focus on critical thinking, AI and ethics. The event will be chaired by leading tech strategist and researcher Rachel Coldicutt, guiding a discussion that unpacks the messy, hopeful, and urgent future of human connection.

Speakers:

• Adele Zeynep Walton, Journalist and author

• Nicola Gunby, Co-founder of Cliq
• Dr Tom Chatfield, Author and tech philosopher

Chair:

• Rachel Coldicutt, Researcher and strategist

*Please note this event will be held at RSA House as well as streamed online - please ensure that you register for the correct ticket type to avoid disappointment*

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