Choose to be Curious Episode #7: Curiosity, Comics & the CIA - with Tom King
Jul 27, 2016
Tom King, a comic book writer and former CIA operative, shares his unique insights on curiosity and creativity. He explores whether Batman embodies curiosity and discusses the transformative power of stories. King reflects on how his espionage background informs his writing and the importance of empathy in storytelling. He also delves into the challenges of comic reboots and the collective bond fans share through iconic characters. Join this deep dive into the interplay between curiosity, crafts, and the beloved world of comics!
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From CIA Counterterrorism To Novelist
- Tom King volunteered for the CIA after 9/11 and worked in counterterrorism both overseas and domestically for six to seven years.
- He left the agency after having a child and then wrote a novel while caring for the kid by day.
Empathy As Operational Tool
- King says success in CIA work depends on empathizing with adversaries without becoming them.
- He frames that skill as understanding motivations to predict and influence behavior.
Begin With Common Ground
- Start understanding others by finding common human goals like work, love, and family.
- Expand from shared motives to map differences in worldview and anticipate actions.
