Reframing Intelligence: Challenging The Cold War Intelligence Doctrine in the Information Age

Abstract

A complex international environment, increased availability of information, simplified data management tools and interfaces, and antiquated intelligence theory has given rise to intelligence clients performing their own intelligence analysis. In the absence of a clear delineation between policy and intelligence roles and outputs, intelligence (the function and the profession) is struggling to define its purpose in the ever-expanding information age. A review of the literature suggests that there has been an over-emphasis on the study (and subsequent analysis) of historical intelligence failures, but in doing so, has neglected to consider the challenges confronting contemporary intelligence managers and practitioners. This paper examines the need for intelligence policy makers to question the prevailing intelligence doctrine and argues that a greater emphasis be placed on the need to address the challenges of the information age within the context of a rapidly evolving operational environment. This paper argues that it is time for intelligence professionals to challenge the many fundamental assumptions that form the basis of western intelligence policy and practice. The paper seeks to advance discussion surrounding the maximization of intelligence resources, within the decision making process of western intelligence and security organizations. This discussion does not seek to further the debate surrounding a universal definition of 'intelligence'; but moreover, it is concerned with examining the role of intelligence in contemporary decision making.