The palintiri weren't evil. They were created by the Noldor (elves) not Melkor or Sauron -- perhaps even by Feanor, who also created the beautiful gems known as the Silmarils. This was in Aman before the elves fell. They were given to the Numenoreans (men from which Aragorn came), and brought by Elendil into Middle Earth. Also called "seeing stones", the palintiri were used to observe and communicate over long distances. They were not used for evil purposes until Sauron captured one, and also when used by those he corrupted. Gandalf even said that it was beyond the power of Sauron to create a palintir, nor could he make them lie or show false images (though he could show select ones, and so deceive). So a stone that can tell only the truth can't be evil, although some beings that used them were.

Thanks for the explanation! I've been rereading the LOTR series over COVID shelter in place and it's been so enjoyable taking me back remembering what a great story it is and experiencing it again! I ended up ordering the LOTR ATLAS with maps drawn by Tolkein's son which looks exciting to explore. Dunno if I have the mental fortitude to tackle the Silmarilion though!

>If you are evil and proud it makes sense to name yourself after evil. It is a waste of everyone's time to try to recruit non-evil people.

Exactly. Interviewed there, got the same bullshit vibe.

Like, I'm here to find out just how tasty the cookies are on the dark side, you don't need to convince me you are, quote, "saving the world".

>Taking short cuts with either stupid or ethical people is never going to work for them.

I think they are going for smart, non-ethical, but obedient enough people. Drinking the doublespeak kool-aid probably is a good enough indicator for that.