This NYT article is so vile that I think it deserves another pass!
The BI process for employment at the Agency is just as, or even possibly more, onerous than the polygraph "interview".
Part of what this Agency liar and/or fool says is quite accurate, except grossly understated.
Getting through the Agency's BI is so difficult that "surviving" it is a matter of pure luck.
Obviously, having a Russian lover will largely block any application process. Here are some other, unstated requisites for getting through a BI for Langley:
1. Come from a family with an upper-middle or upper class background. This will be most helpful in avoiding any adverse police contact, as well as avoiding the danger of unfavorable credit/financial complications. It will also make it more likely that the applicant will not have an extensive employment history, thus reducing the possibility of adverse comments and recommendations from supervisors and coworkers.
Coming from a home with a large lot will reduce the chance for adverse comments/recommendations from the applicant's neighbors.
Having a background of attendance at a private school or academy, or in an affluent public school district will help in avoiding the possibility of any derogatory comments/recommendations by high school faculty. (Yes, the BI actually digs for dirt that far back in an applicant's history!).
Be a good enough "chameleon" so as to be able to avoid the likelihood of derogatory remarks from peers.
Then all that the successful applicant need do is just to remember to tighten the anal sphincter for the duration of the polygraph intimidation.
ETC. AD INFINITUM
Having met all the above-suggested (but never specified) criteria will almost assure the applicant a place in the exalted halls of Langley, and the successful applicant will be automatically elevated to the status of a super patriot who will "risk" life and limb for the country while under hostile enemy fire at Langley, or at any US Embassy or Consulate the world over!