The resistance of policy-makers to intelligence is not just founded on an ideological presupposition. They distrust intelligence sources and intelligence officials because they don't understand what the real problems are.

Aldrich Ames' quote discusses the resistance that policy-makers often have toward intelligence and intelligence officials. He suggests that this resistance is not merely based on ideological differences, but rather stems from a deeper issue: distrust. According to Ames, policy-makers often struggle to fully understand the complexity of intelligence work and the real problems that intelligence agencies are attempting to address. This lack of understanding leads to a breakdown in communication and a reluctance to rely on the insights provided by intelligence agencies.

The quote highlights a key challenge in the relationship between intelligence agencies and government decision-makers. Ames argues that because policy-makers do not always comprehend the intricacies of intelligence, they might dismiss or undermine its significance, even when it is critical for national security. This reflects a disconnect between those making policy decisions and the experts who gather and analyze the information that supports those decisions.

Ames also points out that this distrust may not be purely ideological, but rather a practical concern. Since intelligence involves dealing with uncertainty, ambiguity, and complex geopolitical issues, policy-makers might struggle to make sense of the information provided, leading to a sense of skepticism or resistance. This can hinder the effective use of intelligence in decision-making processes and ultimately impact national security strategies.

The origin of this quote comes from Ames' own experience as a CIA officer and his subsequent betrayal as a spy for the Soviet Union. His intimate knowledge of both the intelligence community and the political landscape gives his perspective weight, highlighting the tension between the operational world of intelligence and the policy-driven world of government. Ames' words reflect the challenges that arise when those in power fail to fully grasp the complexities of the information provided to them.