Amy Zegart: Spies, Lies and Algorithms

Amy Zegart is one of America’s leading intelligence experts, but she recognizes that few people understand the world of spying, at a time when it has never been more ubiquitous, particularly using technology. She hopes to change this situation.

In Spies, Lies, and Algorithms, Zegart separates fact from fiction on spying and offers an account of the past, present and future of American espionage as it faces a revolution driven by digital technology. Zegart explores the history of U.S. 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 complicated issues of traitors, covert action and congressional oversight. Zegart also provides an important description of how technology is empowering new enemies and opportunities, and creating powerful new players, in espionage—including private citizens using their home computers and sophisticated technology available by a click.

Zegart will discuss these topics and more when she returns to The Commonwealth Club.

Please join us for an important conversation on a critical national security subject that many discuss, but few understand.

NOTES

FEBRUARY 16, 2022

SPEAKERS

Amy Zegart
Senior Fellow, Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies; Morris Arnold and Nona Jean Cox Senior Fellow, Hoover Institution, Stanford University; Author, Spies, Lies and Algorithms

Quentin Hardy
Head of Editorial, Google Cloud

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[hypnoweaveryahoo]

Love historic background. Watch or listen.

[walker]

Great interview. Thanks for presenting it.

[billwalsh]

Where ever books are sold.
I always loved that line.

[Nashandme]

What are the parameters between the agencies and the voices 🤔

[tomgraves]

I enjoy the conversation content very much.

Intelligence is like a finely woven rug, though it's also important to see how it lies. (Pun...? Yes) Examine it carefully and all the fringes. The other kind of Intelligence is like a gold mine.... don't promote or harvest pyrite. It's all very time consuming, and potentially offers pleasant rewards. I like rugs but not to cover my mind. It's always prudent to pay attention.

[elizabethlemma]

I don't appreciate how this Tear-in-tea-no wannabe sits there and takes a tone with our Five Star General towards the end! How are you a journalist for decades tadas respectful tone yelishem? It's in these moments that I wish I was an acting KGB officer just to detain you and hold you to your word. This is how I can tell that you've been hanging out with the brits for too long. I feel for Amy having to deal with this lil Curious George Washington. Besmammmm. The standards these days.

[tonyfrench]

Title should be changed to " Lies, Lues and Lies "

[tomgraves]

I enjoy the conversation content very much.

Intelligence is like a finely woven rug, though it's also important to see how it lies. (Pun...? Yes) Examine it carefully and all the fringes. The other kind of Intelligence is like a gold mine.... don't promote or harvest pyrite. It's all very time consuming, and potentially offers pleasant rewards. I like rugs but not to cover my mind. It's always prudent to pay attention.