Why Cyber Security Engineers Should Study Ancient Wisdom: The Unexpected Key to Success

The field of Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and Operational Technology (OT) Cyber Security is booming, with opportunities around every corner. Unsurprisingly, many are diving headfirst into certifications and technical skills, eager to join the ranks of those protecting our critical infrastructures. But here’s the thing—being an ICS/OT Cyber Security Engineer isn’t just about knowing the ins and outs of firewalls and network protocols. It’s about much more than that. And I’ve found that philosophy, yes, philosophy, has been one of the most unexpected yet powerful tools in my professional toolkit.

Now, before you raise an eyebrow, I'd like to explain. You might wonder, "What does the ancient wisdom of philosophers like Socrates or Marcus Aurelius have to do with the modern world of cyber security?" Quite a bit. Philosophy isn’t just about pondering life’s big questions (though that’s certainly part of it). It’s about sharpening your mind, learning to see the world from different perspectives, and, most importantly, developing critical thinking and foresight that can be a game-changer in our field.

A Story of Critical Thinking in Action

I'll share a quick story to show what I mean. A while back, I was dealing with a particularly tricky situation at work. A new industrial system was being integrated, and the security protocols we’d traditionally used weren’t fitting. The team was getting frustrated, and stress levels were high. As the deadline loomed, getting caught up in the immediate problem was easy—what’s the quickest fix?

But then I remembered something from my readings of Marcus Aurelius, the Stoic philosopher and Roman emperor who faced more challenges than most of us can imagine. One of his teachings stood out: “You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” Instead of focusing on the chaos, I took a step back, encouraged the team to do the same, and approached the problem with fresh eyes. We asked, "What’s the root issue here?" and "How can we solve this in a way that benefits the whole system, not just the immediate need?"

This shift in perspective allowed us to break free from the tunnel vision that stress often induces. By critically analyzing the problem and considering long-term impacts rather than just quick fixes, we implemented a security protocol that solved the problem and improved the system’s overall resilience. That’s the kind of insight philosophy can bring—an ability to think critically and see the bigger picture.

Why Critical Thinking Matters in Cyber Security

Critical thinking is more than just a buzzword in our industry; it’s a necessary skill that can differentiate good engineers from great ones. In a field with high stakes, the ability to analyze situations from multiple angles, anticipate potential issues, and make informed decisions under pressure is invaluable. Philosophy, emphasising questioning assumptions and exploring different perspectives, is a fantastic way to cultivate these skills.

For example, reacting based on initial impressions or standard practices is not enough when faced with a security threat. A critical thinker will dig deeper, questioning why the threat emerged, what underlying vulnerabilities it exposes, and how similar issues can be prevented in the future. This approach leads to more robust solutions and helps avoid the pitfalls of short-term thinking.

Tips for Starting Your Philosophical Journey

If you’re intrigued and thinking about dipping your toes into philosophy, here’s how you can start without feeling overwhelmed:

1. Begin with the Stoics: The Stoics, like Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus, are a great entry point. They’re practical and focused on everyday life, and their teachings are surprisingly applicable to modern challenges. Start with “Meditations” by Marcus Aurelius—it’s a collection of his personal notes and reflections, offering wisdom that’s both profound and accessible.
2. Read in Small Doses: Philosophy isn’t something you need to binge-read like a thriller novel. Take it slow. Read a few pages or a chapter, and then give yourself time to reflect on it. The goal is to absorb the ideas, not just consume them.
3. Apply What You Learn: Consider how these ideas can apply to your work and life as you read. Ask yourself questions like, "How would Socrates approach this problem?" or "What would Epictetus say about handling this stress?" The more you connect philosophy to your daily experiences, the more valuable it becomes.
4. Join a Community: Philosophy is best when shared. Consider joining a reading group or an online forum to discuss these ideas with others. You’ll be surprised at how different perspectives can deepen your understanding.

The Lighter Side of Philosophy

And for those who think philosophy might be a bit too heavy or serious, let me assure you, it’s not all stoic faces and deep contemplation. Realising that people have been grappling with the same kinds of problems for thousands of years, there's a certain humour. It’s like when you’re deep into a project at work, stressing about getting it just right, and then you read Seneca saying, “We suffer more often in imagination than in reality.” Suddenly, it’s a reminder not to take everything so seriously. After all, if a Roman philosopher could find peace amidst the chaos of ancient Rome, we can certainly handle a tough day at the office.

Conclusion: Philosophy as a Lifelong Companion

In conclusion, while the technical side of being an ICS/OT Cyber Security Engineer is undeniably important, don’t overlook the power of philosophy to enhance your thinking, decision-making, and ability to navigate the complexities of both work and life. By investing time in understanding the wisdom of the past, you can gain surprisingly relevant insights today. So, next time you’re looking for a new way to sharpen your skills, consider picking up a philosophy book—you might find it’s the most valuable tool in your toolkit.