I was honoured to receive an invitation to the Elson Ethics Lecture at St George’s House, a forum I hold in the highest regard for its commitment to ethical reflection and principled dialogue. As a member of the St George’s House Society, I follow its work with great interest. Although an exceptionally demanding schedule prevented me from attending this year’s lecture in person, I nonetheless engaged closely with the material presented, and my appreciation for the event could not have been greater.
This year’s lecture, delivered by The Revd Canon Dr Hueston E. Finlay, explored a compelling and timely theme: “Is it True that there is Truth?”. In the opening sections of the text, Dr Finlay drew a striking comparison between two existential threats facing humanity. While acknowledging the urgency of climate change, he argued that an even greater danger confronts our societies: the decay of truth. He traced how the erosion of shared factual foundations, visible through phenomena such as “post-truth,” “fake news,” and “alternative facts”, threatens not only public discourse but the very conditions that make ethical reasoning possible.
Equally thought-provoking was his historical examination of how earlier shifts in information technology, particularly the invention of the printing press, destabilised existing structures of authority and contributed to periods of upheaval. Through vivid examples from the Reformation, such as the circulation of vernacular Bibles and the rise of contradictory interpretations, Dr Finlay illustrated how disputes over truth have historically fuelled conflict, mistrust, and radicalisation, a warning that resonates strongly in our digital age.
Even from afar, I found myself deeply impressed by the calibre and spirit of the event. The Elson Lectures at St George’s House have always excelled in bringing complex moral issues to the forefront, encouraging participants to reflect with honesty and depth. Reading through the lecture reminded me why this annual gathering is so important: it refuses superficial answers and instead invites us to confront difficult questions about leadership, responsibility, and the ethical fabric that binds communities together.
What I appreciate most about St George’s House is its unwavering dedication to serious and generous conversation. The Elson Lecture stands as a testament to this mission, a rare space where ideas are not merely presented but tested, examined, and allowed to flourish beyond the constraints of political noise or rhetorical simplification. Although I regretted not being able to be physically present, I felt deeply connected to the discussion and inspired by its message.
My admiration for the event and for the values it embodies has only grown. I look forward to future occasions when I might participate more directly, and I remain committed to supporting the vital work of St George’s House. Its mission to cultivate ethical leadership and reflective dialogue feels more necessary now than ever.