However, at the same time, lay attitudes to science and to technical knowledge generally are typically ambivalent. This is an ambivalence that lies at the core of all trust relations, whether it be trust in abstract systems or in individuals. For trust is only demanded where there is ignorance—either of the knowledge claims of technical experts or of the thoughts and intentions of intimates upon whom a person relies. Yet ignorance always provides grounds for scepticism or at least caution.

DEFINE: Defines trust in terms of its precondition: ignorance or lack of direct knowledge creates the space in which trust becomes necessary.

Anthony Giddens, The Consequences of Moderni…, loc. 220