Sociocultural Intelligence: A New Discipline in Intelligence Studies (Continuum Intelligence Studies) - Softcover

Patton, Kerry

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1441155317 ISBN 13: 9781441155313

Publisher: Continuum, 2010

Synopsis

This new discipline proposes a systematic understanding of the customs, moral attitudes, and cultures of foreign populations to enhance the efficacy of national security initiatives. The book offers an in-depth analysis and conceptualization of a much needed intelligence discipline, Sociocultural intelligence (SOCINT). SOCINT means observing and analyzing such elements as the land, the people, and their communities. Customs, moral attitudes, and culture of foreign populations are integrated into the analysis of the information gathered to maximize the efficiency of security initiatives. A key tool in intelligence and covert operations, SOCINT can mostly be used for non-lethal operations that require a thorough understanding of networks and systems. Simply, by understanding the behavioral aspects of relationships and systems, we will have a greater opportunity for 'success' by knowing who, what, where, when, why, and how to influence within the systems themselves. Not only a tool for war fighting, SOCINT is needed for multiple uses, such as law enforcement operations and business. Written by an international expert, this unique book combines theoretical analysis with practical application to present and advocate for the systematic use of SOCINT to students and practitioners in intelligence studies, intelligence communities, and national security. "The Continuum Intelligence Studies Series" presents new research to enhance both the study and practice of intelligence. The volumes in CITS will focus on theory, concepts, teaching methods, new research, methodologies, best practices, and more across all fields of intelligence studies. The focus will be on contemporary issues and new research. Composed of coursebooks, monographs, practical guides, and reference works written by scholars and experts, the series is geared toward students in intelligence and security studies, as well as practitioners and policymakers.

About this title

From the Back Cover

"Kerry Patton provides an in-depth, much needed, and fully analyzed proposal for a newly instituted intelligence discipline known as SOCINT. After operating and living with local Afghans, his supporting evidence matches that which Major General Michael Flynn recently described in his works Fixing Intel: A Blueprint for Making Intelligence Relevant in Afghanistan. With billions of dollars expended and lives of America's finest continuously endangered, there is no better time to incorporate a "Sociocultural Intelligence" discipline in defeating asymmetrical threats. MUST READ!" --Thomas G. McInerney, Lt. Gen. USAF (Ret)

"Patton puts forward an interesting proposal that can improve multidimensional intelligence analysis by focusing on those "hidden" social and cultural aspects we currently ignore. It is clear we need a new type of intelligence officer and  decision-maker that appreciate the value of these intangibles and then commit themselves on collecting,  analyzing and acting upon them in our quest for understanding, and solving the world's problems."--Dalene Duvenage, CEO, 4Knowledge Analysis Solutions, South Africa

About the Author

KERRY PATTON is an internationally recognized security, terrorism, and intelligence professional. He has taught domestic and international organizations in counter-terrorism, intelligence, and physical security related issues. Kerry has briefed some of the highest government officials ranging from ambassadors to members of Congress and Pentagon staff. He is author of the book Contracted: America's Secret Warriors and a contributing editor for SOFREP.com.

About this edition

• Publisher: Continuum
• Publication date: 2010
• ISBN 10: 1441155317
• ISBN 13: 9781441155313
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 224