Gary Smith has done it again. Distrust is a wild ride that derails the big data hype train with force, style, and above all sardonic humor. Smith is a master of illustrating by example—examples that are fresh, unexpected, at times shocking, and at times hilarious. Come along on Smith’s tour of statistical snake-oil and you’ll never look at AI or data science the same way again. — Carl T. Bergstrom, Professor of Biology, University of Washington, Author of Calling Bullshit: The art of skepticism in a digital world

Any fan of Carl Sagan’s The Demon Haunted World will love this book. Like Sagan, Smith discusses the challenges to human progress that result from a lack of critical thinking skills, and he does so with a Sagan-esque keen eye and eloquent voice. Smith also makes clear how the threats to sound judgment and effective decisions are more formidable than those of Sagan’s day, as faulty thinking is now aided and abetted by an internet-fueled distrust of science, viral misinformation, and venomous conspiracy theories. The wisdom in this book is desperately needed. —Tom Gilovich, Irene Blecker Rosenfeld Professor of Psychology, Cornell University, Author of The Wisest One in the Room

Gary Smith provides a brilliantly executed counter against pseudo-science and the accumulating garbage we misleadingly call information. Timely and important warnings and ways forward for policy-makers, practiitioners, academics and citizens alike. — Leslie Willcocks, Professor Emeritus, London School of Economics and Political Science

Smith’s delivery is so delicately and effortlessly encrusted with endless dry wit that you might actually find yourself laughing out loud as you read it—surely to be followed by a deep frown as you contemplate the powerful implications of what he is saying. — Jeanette Ferrara, Rigaku Review

An immensely readable look at why we need science more than ever, but also why and how science needs to clean up its act. Recommended for anyone who occasionally wonders whether that 'outspoken' family member on Facebook might just have a point. — Nick Brown, PhD, scientific integrity researcher

Smith marvelously illustrates the evolution of disinformation. He richly demonstrates how blind faith in technology enables more misrepresentations of the truth. Distrust articulates a humbling view of how we should think critically about new findings from hyped technology trends. — Karl Meyer, Managing Director, Digital Alpha Advisors LLC and former Partner at Kleiner Perkins