Spying Through a Glass Darkly: The Ethics of Espionage and Counter-Intelligence

Cécile Fabre provides a systematic account of the ethics of espionage and counterintelligence, arguing that such operations are morally justified as a means to protect oneself and third parties from ongoing violations of fundamental rights. She addresses a range of ethical questions and offers answers through philosophical arguments and historical examples.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 25 January 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Espionage and counterintelligence, both real and imagined, weave a complex and captivating story. However, there is a notable lack of serious philosophical exploration into the realm of these activities. Cécile Fabre steps forward to address this gap by presenting a comprehensive account of the ethics of espionage and counterintelligence. In her book, she argues that these operations, particularly in the context of war and foreign policy, can be morally justified as a means, but only as a means, to protect oneself and third parties from ongoing violations of fundamental rights. Fabre delves into a range of ethical dilemmas, such as whether intelligence officers are morally permitted to engage in bribery, deception, blackmail, and manipulation to uncover state secrets. She also examines the permissibility of cyberespionage and the use of mass surveillance by governments to safeguard national security. Additionally, she explores the question of whether treason can ever be morally permissible and whether economic espionage can be justified in the name of national security. Fabre offers thoughtful and nuanced answers to these questions through a combination of philosophical arguments and historical examples.

The book is organized into several chapters, each exploring different aspects of the ethics of espionage and counterintelligence. Fabre begins by providing a historical overview of the development of these activities, highlighting their role in shaping world history. She then delves into the philosophical foundations of her arguments, drawing on concepts from ethics, political philosophy, and international law. Fabre's approach is grounded in a commitment to promoting human rights and dignity, while also recognizing the importance of national security. Throughout the book, she employs a rigorous analytical framework to examine the ethical implications of various scenarios and policies. She carefully considers the potential harms and benefits of different actions, as well as the broader societal implications of espionage and counterintelligence. Fabre's book is a valuable contribution to the field of ethics, particularly in the context of contemporary security challenges. It provides a comprehensive and nuanced analysis of the ethical dilemmas associated with these activities, offering insights that can help policymakers and individuals navigate the complex terrain of espionage and counterintelligence. By addressing these ethical questions, Fabre helps to promote a more responsible and ethical approach to national security, one that balances the need for protection with the respect for human rights and dignity.

Weight: 566g
Dimension: 164 x 240 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198833765