Spies, Lies, and Algorithms

The History and Future of American Intelligence

By: Amy B. Zegart

Narrated by: Amy B. Zegart

Spying has never been more ubiquitous - or less understood. The world is drowning in spy movies, TV shows, and novels, but universities offer more courses on rock and roll than on the CIA, and there are more congressional experts on powdered milk than espionage. This crisis in intelligence education is distorting public opinion, fueling conspiracy theories, and hurting intelligence policy. In Spies, Lies, and Algorithms, Amy Zegart separates fact from fiction as she offers an engaging and enlightening account of the past, present, and future of American espionage as it faces a revolution driven by digital technology.

Drawing on decades of research and hundreds of interviews with intelligence officials, Zegart provides a history of US espionage, from George Washington's Revolutionary War spies to today's spy satellites; examines how fictional spies are influencing real officials; gives an overview of intelligence basics and life inside America's intelligence agencies; explains the deadly cognitive biases that can mislead analysts; and explores the vexed issues of traitors, covert action, and congressional oversight. Most of all, Zegart describes how technology is empowering new enemies and opportunities, and creating powerful new players, such as private citizens who are successfully tracking nuclear threats using little more than Google Earth.

©2022 Amy B. Zegart (P)2022 HighBridge, a division of Recorded Books

Good overview

Above all is good book, but the naivete theme that cover US government and companies is clear

The Research

The is a well research book. I love the depth, the intellectual weight behind the analysis and conclusions. Great book.

Future Shock on Steroids

Not a moment to kick back and doze off during this trip around, in, through and then to the future of espionage. I know that’s a broad term. Just listen to this superb narration of a complex reality and how technology, AI is the new ARMS RACE. Fascinating.

11hr felt like 1. great read by the author.

would love to see her continue this as technology continues to advance. excellent job of explaining.

Wide ranging overview of the history and importance of the intelligence branches and how vital they are to modern statecraft

Fascinating look at the history of failures and successes of the intelligence branches, and how important they are, as well as undervalued, as tools of statecraft. Meticulously, laboriously researched and highly recommended.