Information Quote by Robert David Steele
““I realized in 1988 that my life as a spy specializing in secrets was not only unproductive, it was in sharp opposition to what we actually need: full access to true information, and consequently, the ability to create Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT).””
About This Quote
Source Speech: International Security Conference, 2008
A career in espionage can become counterproductive when secrecy hinders the free flow of information needed for societal benefit.
In simple terms: Spy work can block useful knowledge.
Key Takeaway
Promote openness over secrecy when possible.
Themes
intelligence
transparency
information freedom
ethics
public good
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy debates
- academic research
- journalistic investigations
- government reform
Key Concepts
OSINT
government secrecy
knowledge sharing
Questions to Reflect On
- Should all intelligence be public?
- How to balance secrecy and openness?
A Different Perspective
Open access may compromise national security or privacy.
