Codemakers is a book by David Kahn that highlights some of the remarkable stories of codebreakers throughout history. This book is designed to give readers an understanding of the ways in which these codebreakers have shaped our world, while also addressing the ethical issues associated with code breaking.
Kahn begins his book by providing an overview of the history of codebreaking, explaining the importance of these activities and the impact they’ve had on our world. He then examines the roles of individuals—from cryptographers like Alan Turing and legendary figures like Wolfgang von Kempelen to modern day hackers like Edward Snowden—in the history of codebreaking. He later delves into some of the ethical questions associated with codebreaking, particularly when it comes to governments intervening in citizens’ private lives through authorized digital snooping.
Kahn details the various processes, tools, and techniques used by codebreakers to break codes, from complex algorithms and mathematical problem-solving to the use of brute-force methods and the application of social engineering to access encrypted data. He highlights the various coding systems employed by countries all over the world, and explains how codebreaking has been used to provide intelligence that has on occasions pre-empted or inhibited potential threats or even moderated or averted them. He also discusses the role of artificial intelligence and machine learning in helping improve codebreaking algorithms.
Kahn also explores the emergence of the Cold War period, and the subsequent effect it had on the world of codebreaking, with governments and military establishments investing heavily in the tools and techniques used to break codes. He describes some of the more famous codebreaking achievements of both sides, such as the deciphering of the Japanese Naval Code and the breaking of the McCarthy Code. He also examines the implications of these successes and the implications for the future of codebreaking, particularly in wartime efforts.
Kahn goes on to highlight the ethical implications and complexities associated with codebreaking. He explores some of the philosophical questions which have arisen from the practice, particularly with regard to the use of codebreaking in surveillance and espionage. He also provides an overview of the increased reliance on technology for codebreaking activities, and how this has contributed to the development of digital security and privacy technologies such as encryption, stepping up the need for better codebreaking methods.
He finishes his book by attacking some of the underlying issues which challenge code breakers, such as the current state of artificial intelligence and the role it plays in aiding and abetting codebreaking activities. By the end of the book, readers will have a comprehensive examination of the past, present and future of codebreaking, and understand the ethical implications associated with this vital activity.
Codemakers provides an invaluable insight into the world of codebreaking and its history, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the nature and importance of these activities. It serves as an essential text for anyone wishing to gain an understanding of the science behind codebreaking, and provides an enlightening perspective on some of the ethical dilemmas which are often associated with the practice. Codemakers is an accessible and interesting book which is highly recommended for anyone interested in this fascinating aspect of cryptography.
