Picture a British thinker who weaves tech philosophy into page-turning thrillers—meet Tom Chatfield! A tech philosopher, author, and broadcaster, Chatfield explores our digital age with wit and insight, from his debut novel This is Gomorrah to his thought-provoking non-fiction. With works translated into over 24 languages, he’s a global voice helping us navigate the wired world with curiosity and critical thinking.
Whether he’s dissecting AI ethics or crafting dark net thrillers, Chatfield’s unique blend of academia and storytelling captivates readers. Ready to dive into his world? Let’s explore the life, works, and impact of this modern-day digital sage!
The Making of Tom Chatfield
Born in 1980, Tom Chatfield grew up in the UK, where his fascination with technology and storytelling took root. He pursued a BA, MPhil, and doctorate at St John’s College, Oxford, later teaching there before diving into writing. His early career as a writer and editor set the stage for a prolific journey, blending academic rigor with a knack for engaging narratives. Influences from Oxford’s intellectual hub and the rapid rise of digital culture shaped his unique lens on technology’s role in our lives.
Chatfield’s work as a broadcaster and columnist for the BBC, coupled with his role as a visiting associate at the Oxford Internet Institute, honed his ability to translate complex ideas into accessible stories. This foundation paved the way for his dual career as a non-fiction author and novelist, always with a focus on how technology shapes us.
Tom Chatfield’s Unforgettable Stories
Chatfield’s bibliography is a vibrant mix of non-fiction and fiction, each work reflecting his deep dive into digital culture. His first book, Fun Inc. (2010), explored the cultural impact of video games, earning praise for its fresh perspective. How to Thrive in the Digital Age (2012) offered practical wisdom for navigating our wired lives, part of a series with The School of Life. Both works showcase his ability to make tech philosophy relatable and engaging.
In 2019, Chatfield ventured into fiction with This is Gomorrah (also known as The Gomorrah Gambit in the US), a techno-thriller set in the shadowy world of the dark net. A Sunday Times thriller of the month, it was shortlisted for the CWA Steel Dagger and won France’s 2020 Prix Douglas Kennedy for best foreign thriller. His latest, Wise Animals (2024), traces humanity’s co-evolution with technology, blending history and philosophy in a compelling narrative.
Chatfield’s style is marked by clarity, curiosity, and a knack for connecting tech trends to human experiences. Whether unpacking AI ethics or spinning a thriller, he invites readers to think critically about the digital forces shaping our world.
Why Tom Chatfield Matters
Tom Chatfield’s impact lies in his ability to bridge technology and storytelling, making the digital age accessible and thought-provoking. His non-fiction, like Critical Thinking (2017), a bestselling textbook, equips students and professionals with tools to navigate information overload. His novels, meanwhile, thrill readers while sparking questions about privacy, power, and tech’s darker corners.
As a TED Global speaker, consultant for tech giants like Google, and chair of the Authors’ Licensing and Collecting Society, Chatfield influences both policy and public discourse. His work, translated into over 24 languages, resonates globally, inspiring readers to engage with technology thoughtfully. In a world of constant connection, Chatfield’s voice is a guiding light.
- Born: 1980, UK
- Key Works: Fun Inc. (2010), How to Thrive in the Digital Age (2012), This is Gomorrah (2019), Wise Animals (2024)
- Awards: 2020 Prix Douglas Kennedy for This is Gomorrah
Ready to explore the digital age through a thrilling lens? Snag This is Gomorrah or Wise Animals and dive into Tom Chatfield’s captivating world of tech and storytelling!