That isn't always true. The "any" technology will quite often fail as it tries to steal a technology you already have. While a specific tech theft will generally work out better since you probably chose a tech they have that you don't. But if you don't then it still fails because you have the tech...
Interestinly enough this doesn't seem to affect Empire Star Chart thefts as it only steals charts to systems you don't already have a chart for and once you have all the charts they do it will always fail.
Wonder why a similiar system can't be worked out for the "any" tech theft based on the enemies known techs compared to yours.
PS: Towards the end of the game I love taking apart enemy empires with intel. 4 or 6 food contaminations and anarchy Groups a turn can be quite devestating to an enemy.
[ December 10, 2003, 15:20: Message edited by: Cyrien ]