Future of the Inquirer, 11 June 2025

It’s hard to imagine British Unitarianism without The Inquirer magazine, but like literally every other British organisation these days, the prevailing economy it has to survive in isn’t exactly kind and forgiving. It was therefore quite exciting to be invited to a ‘Future of The Inquirer’ online event, and reassuring for those of us who have hoped for some updates on what’s happening.

There will be a full write-up in the July edition of The Inquirer (natch), but here’s some headlines for now, courtesy of Laura Autumn Cox and Kieren Mardle-Moss:

• Finances: Kieren presented the good news that The Inquirer is in a healthy financial position, and donations are increasing.
• Content: Laura stated that current editorial policy is to focus on accessibility, variety, and a diverse spread of authors and article topics. A style guide has been created for contributors to use.
• Contributors: All budding writers are invited to contribute to The Inquirer and they don’t have to be Unitarian; the editorial board is keen to welcome other views and build connections beyond the movement.
• A surprise! The Inquirer has launched a brand-new creative competition! Details are in the June edition, and on the new Instagram page: @theinquirer_mag.

The discussions afterwards covered the range of topics in the magazine, details of the style guide, and the need to create an AI policy, which the editorial board plans to move forward with, much to the delight of yours truly, since it was me who brought it up.

I’m not opposed to AI, but I am firmly in favour of its careful and responsible use, and, above all, transparency about when it is used and how. If something is presented as the work of a human being, we need to be sure that it is – or, if not, how much of it is of AI origin. Indeed, in 2024 our national movement resolved that, among other parts of Resolution 1, our “[Unitarian] individuals and congregations to study AI, algorithms and their societal impact …Unitarian bodies to host and / or facilitate wider societal and philosophical conversations”.

Watch this space for more details, and for now, all seems promising!

Louise Reeve

(Written without the aid of any AI whatsoever. All mistakes entirely my own fault.)