Background:

In a rapidly evolving world of technology encompassing artificial intelligence and driverless cars, one might wonder why individuals invest multiple years of study into a trade that has thrived in London for four centuries. London taxi driver and YouTuber, Tom Hutley, sheds light on the reasons behind the enduring appeal of the humble cab. In this lecture, Tom will delve into why this profession is poised to outlast the encroaching influence of artificial intelligence far more effectively than many others. His lecture will prominently showcase the significance of possessing topographical knowledge, address the philosophical and moral quandaries posed by artificial intelligence, and underscore the priceless value of providing a personalised service.

Speaker:

Tom Hutley has worked as a hackney carriage driver for over five years, having completed the Knowledge of London in December 2017 and earning his prestigious green taxi badge. He has trained further since, first as a Qualified Taxi Guide under the joint auspices of the Worshipful Company of Hackney Carriage Drivers and the Museum of London in 2019 and later as a Qualified Tour Guide with the London Borough of Camden in 2020. Tom is a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Hackney Carriage Drivers and was accepted onto their Court of Assistants in 2022. Building upon his Bachelor of Arts degree in Film & Television Production from the University of Hertfordshire (2013, First Class Honours), Tom started his successful YouTube channel in 2020 to share the realities of the London cab trade and attract new users and entrants to the trade. It has since grown to over 84,000 subscribers.