You don't know what you're m ss ng: The hidden data shaping our behaviour

Mathematician Kit Yates returns to the Ri to explore how missing information shapes our understanding of reality. What if the key to understanding the world lies in what’s not there? In this thought-provoking talk, Kit Yates explores the science of missingness: how our brains, biases, and external systems distort reality by filtering, filling in, or overlooking crucial information. Drawing on gripping real-world stories and leading-edge research, Kit introduces three powerful concepts—intrinsic, extrinsic, and constructive missingness—that challenge how we perceive, reason, and believe. This talk will change how you think about data, decisions, and even truth itself. Discover how noticing what’s missing can unlock deeper insights into science, society, and ourselves. Copies of Kit's book "You Don't Know What You're M ss ng" will be available to purchase after the talk By booking to attend events at the Royal Institution, you confirm that you have read and agree to the Ri's event terms and conditions. Event image by Markus Spiske via Pexels