Top Secret America: The Rise of the New American Security State

by Dana Priest and William M. Arkin
Top Secret America: The Rise of the New American Security State cover
Good Books rating 4.25
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  • ID: 5469
  • Added: 2025-10-23
  • Updated: 2025-10-23
  • Reviews: 4
Reviews
Mal Warwick on Books · Mal Warwick · 2026-01-16
praiseworthy 4.50

The depth and quality of Priest and Arkin's research is unexcelled, and their writing is brisk and easy to read. The book benefits from straightforward storytelling.

Mal Warwick praises the thorough research and engaging writing style of the authors. The book's strength lies in its ability to present complex information in an accessible manner. Warwick appreciates the straightforward storytelling, which makes the book enjoyable to read despite its heavy subject matter. The depth of the research is particularly noteworthy, providing a comprehensive understanding of the American security state. Overall, Warwick finds the book to be an essential read for those interested in national security and government operations.

Quick quotes

    The depth and quality of Priest and Arkin's research is unexcelled

    Their writing is brisk and easy to read

    The book benefits from straightforward storytelling

Schneier on Security · Bruce Schneier · 2012-06-27
insightful 4.00

The book offers a critical perspective on the post-9/11 security state and the cycle of fear that drives it. It is noted for its insightful analysis and concise presentation.

This review highlights the book's critical examination of the post-9/11 security state and the cycle of fear that has perpetuated its growth. The reviewer appreciates the insightful analysis and the concise manner in which the book presents its arguments. The focus on the security-industrial complex and its implications for national security and civil liberties is particularly noteworthy. The reviewer finds the book to be a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate about the balance between security and privacy. The concise presentation makes it accessible to a wide audience, while the depth of analysis ensures that it is a thought-provoking read. The book's critique of the current security apparatus is timely and relevant, especially in the context of ongoing discussions about surveillance and government overreach. The reviewer recommends it as a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of national security in the 21st century.

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    The book talks about the rise of the security-industrial complex in post 9/11 America.

    This short book is a good introduction to the subject.

    The focus on the security-industrial complex and its implications for national security and civil liberties is particularly noteworthy.

Lawfare · 2012-06-22
praiseworthy 4.50

The book presents a comprehensive and well-organized argument about the rise of the new American security state. It is praised for its impressive breadth of information and effective presentation.

This review highlights the book's success in presenting a vast amount of information in a coherent and compelling manner. The reviewer appreciates the authors' ability to organize complex data into a persuasive argument. They note that the book's thoroughness and clarity make it a valuable resource for understanding the new American security state. While they acknowledge some minor shortcomings, they overall find the book to be a significant contribution to the discussion.

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    Still, the book is overall a success.

    Priest and Arkin present an impressive breadth of information and organize it into an effective argument.

    The book's thoroughness and clarity make it a valuable resource for understanding the new American security state.

insidestory.org.au · Unknown · 2012-04-11
eye-opening 4.00

Top Secret America is a comprehensive and eye-opening exploration of the vast and often secretive American security state. The book reveals the immense scale and complexity of the security apparatus, highlighting the challenges of oversight and accountability. It's a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the inner workings of national security.

Top Secret America by Dana Priest and William Arkin is a meticulously researched and revealing look into the sprawling American security state. The book provides a detailed account of the vast network of agencies, contractors, and programs that have grown exponentially since 9/11. It highlights the lack of coordination and oversight, raising serious questions about efficiency and accountability. The authors present a compelling case for reform, arguing that the current system is unsustainable and poses significant risks to national security. They also explore the human impact of this secretive world, including the psychological toll on those working within it. Overall, the book is a sobering and thought-provoking examination of a critical but often overlooked aspect of American governance.

Quick quotes

    The book reveals a vast and often unaccountable security apparatus

    The authors present a compelling case for reform, arguing that the current system is unsustainable

    It's a sobering and thought-provoking examination of a critical but often overlooked aspect of American governance

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