Spies, PIs and Prostitutes; Oldest Professions?

Is gathering intelligence the oldest profession?

Are spies and PIs older, as a profession, than prostitutes? Certainly, trading knowledge and information as a job has been around for a long time.

The phrase "the oldest profession" is often associated with prostitution, but a closer examination of history suggests that the act of gathering and trading information—espionage and private investigation—may be just as ancient and enduring. From ancient civilizations to modern societies, the value placed on knowledge and the lengths to which individuals and states go to acquire it underscore the timeless nature of these professions.

Oldest Profession? Is it spying?

The Ancient Roots of Espionage

Espionage, the practice of obtaining secret or confidential information without the permission of the holder, has been a critical component of statecraft and warfare since antiquity. In ancient China, Sun Tzu's The Art of War emphasized the importance of spies in warfare, categorizing them into five types: local spies, inward spies, converted spies, doomed spies, and surviving spies. He asserted, "One who knows the enemy and knows himself will not be endangered in a hundred engagements," highlighting the strategic advantage of intelligence gathering.

Similarly, in ancient India, the Arthashastra by Chanakya (also known as Kautilya) detailed the use of espionage in governance and military strategy, advocating for a structured and systematic approach to intelligence operations.

The ancient Egyptians developed sophisticated methods for intelligence collection, and biblical accounts, such as the story of Rahab in the Book of Joshua, depict the use of spies in military campaigns. In ancient Athens, espionage was legally recognized, with specific laws addressing the prosecution of spies. For further information please visit here.

The Evolution of Private Investigation

While espionage often served the interests of states and rulers, the concept of private individuals conducting investigations for personal or commercial reasons also has deep historical roots. In ancient Rome and Egypt, individuals were tasked with gathering information discreetly, serving the needs of those who required intelligence outside the purview of official state mechanisms. 

The formalization of private investigation as a profession is credited to Eugène François Vidocq, a French soldier and former criminal who, in 1833, established "Le Bureau des Renseignements Universels pour le commerce et l'Industrie" ("The Office of Universal Information for Commerce and Industry"). Vidocq's agency employed ex-convicts and introduced innovative investigative techniques, such as record-keeping and the use of plaster casts for shoe impressions, laying the groundwork for modern criminology.

In the United Kingdom, Charles Frederick Field, a former Metropolitan Police officer, opened an enquiry office in 1852, further professionalizing the field. His work, along with that of contemporaries like Ignatius Paul Pollaky, helped establish private investigation as a recognized and respected profession. 

The Interplay of Espionage and Private Investigation

Throughout history, the lines between espionage and private investigation have often blurred, with individuals and organizations operating in both realms. During the Tudor period, Thomas Cromwell, Chief Minister to King Henry VIII, maintained a network of spies and informers to consolidate the king's power. Queen Elizabeth I is noted for having established one of the most extensive spy networks in history, employing agents to protect her reign from internal and external threats. 

In more recent times, the Profumo affair in 1960s Britain exemplifies the intersection of espionage, private investigation, and scandal. The involvement of Christine Keeler with both a British government minister and a Soviet naval attaché raised concerns about national security, leading to investigations that combined elements of state espionage and private inquiry.

Knowledge as a Timeless Commodity

The enduring presence of espionage and private investigation throughout history underscores a fundamental truth: knowledge is power. The pursuit of information—whether for personal, commercial, or political gain—has driven individuals and societies to develop sophisticated methods for acquiring and protecting it.

As Sarah Saul, Managing Director of SIASS, aptly states:

"Whatever the 'oldest' profession may be, there is no doubt that throughout history humans have traded information. Knowledge certainly is power. Obtaining knowledge allows people to make informed decisions about courses of action open to them."

In every era, the value placed on information has remained constant, reinforcing the significance of those who specialize in its acquisition.

Conclusion

While the debate over the "oldest profession" may never be conclusively settled, the historical record clearly illustrates that the roles of spies and private investigators are among the most enduring. Their contributions to the shaping of societies, the protection of interests, and the pursuit of justice affirm the timeless importance of their work. In a world where information continues to be a vital asset, the professions dedicated to its pursuit remain as relevant as ever.