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: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 15 January 2024
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, within the context of war and foreign policy, these operations 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 uncover potential threats to 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 an overview of the historical context in which these activities have taken place, highlighting the ethical challenges that have arisen throughout history. She then delves into the philosophical foundations of her arguments, drawing on various philosophical traditions to support her claims. Fabre's approach is grounded in the principles of utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics, which provide a framework for analyzing the ethical implications of different actions.

One of the key themes of the book is the importance of proportionality in the use of force and intelligence operations. Fabre argues that the ethical implications of these activities are not solely determined by the ends they seek to achieve but also by the means by which they are pursued. She emphasizes the need for intelligence officers and governments to weigh the potential risks and benefits of their actions and to ensure that they are using the least intrusive and most effective means possible to achieve their goals.

Another important aspect of Fabre's book is the consideration of the role of individual rights and freedoms in the context of espionage and counterintelligence. She argues that these activities must be conducted in a way that respects the rights and freedoms of individuals, regardless of their nationality or political affiliation. Fabre emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability in these operations, as well as the importance of providing individuals with the right to challenge their surveillance and interrogation.

Fabre's book also raises important questions about the moral implications of technology and the digital age. She argues that the increasing use of technology in espionage and counterintelligence has created new ethical challenges that require careful consideration. For example, she explores the issue of cyber espionage, which involves the use of digital technologies to steal sensitive information or disrupt critical systems. Fabre argues that such activities must be conducted in a way that respects the privacy and security of individuals and that governments must have clear regulations in place to prevent such activities from occurring.

In conclusion, Cécile Fabre's book is a valuable contribution to the field of ethics and provides a systematic account of the ethics of espionage and counterintelligence. Through her thoughtful and nuanced analysis, Fabre challenges readers to consider the ethical implications of these activities and to think critically about the ways in which they can be conducted in a way that respects the rights and freedoms of individuals and promotes the greater good.

Weight: 412g
Dimension: 235 x 157 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198912170