A general definition of trust

Download

Preview

PDF Download (414Kb)

Description/Abstract

In this paper a definition and conceptual analysis of trust is given in terms of trustworthiness. Its focus will be as wide as possible, and will not be restricted to any particular type of trust. The aim is to show the key parameters that enable us to investigate and understand trust, thereby facilitating the development of systems, institutions and technologies to support, model or mimic trust. The paper will also show the strong connection between trust and trustworthiness, showing how the subjectivity of trust reveals itself in attitudes toward others’ trustworthiness; to trust someone/something is to believe that he/she/it is trustworthy. Both trust and trustworthiness are context-dependent, but the relevant contexts are different depending on whether one is trusting or trustworthy. Finally, the paper will discuss some of the complex issues connected with the alignment of trust with trustworthiness.