Spies, Lies, and Algorithms: The History and Future of American Intelligence

Written 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.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Highbridge Company
• Release date: Feb 1, 2022
• ISBN: 9781696606714

Reviews for Spies, Lies, and Algorithms

[Melanie Beaulieu · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Wow, what a great book. The authors in depth knowledge of intelligence culture, it’s past, present and the challenges it faces are both insightful and quite frankly frightening. As much as Western Nations think they have the most sophisticated intelligence networks and technology, the reality is far from that. This hubris has opened doors that are still being exploited today by those who would bring down democracy. The author shows how Military reliance on Big Tech could be an Achilles heel in the future of cyber warfare. This is even more starkly evident given the current European conflict. Definitely worth the read.

[Mary-Anne Sillamaa · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Many interesting stories. Animus towards Republicans. It made me wonder a bit about her objectivity. Nevertheless, an informative read.

[PJC · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I liked the subject matter, narration, and cadence of the book. The only problem I had was a few dead spaces, or moments of silence where there was not supposed to be any. It was a recording issue, or something wrong with the Scribd app, but it happened about five times or more. They need to fix it quick