Spring 2018 - POL 349 D100
Selected Topics in International Relations (4)
Class Number: 13084
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
Jan 3 – Apr 10, 2018: Tue, 1:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
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Instructor:
Candyce Kelshall
ckelshal@sfu.ca
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Prerequisites:
Six lower division units in Political Science or permission of the department.
Description
COURSE DETAILS:
Selected Topics: Intelligence & International Security
A theoretical and anecdotal exploration of current threat pictures as well as an introduction to the world of the intelligence analyst and an appreciation of theoretical approaches to intelligence analysis. In order to frame the course a look at modern warfare and the nature of contemporary conflict sets the scene for the analysis of and role of intelligence in security studies and in practical security considerations. The course looks at the subject of Intelligence from the perspective of civilian, military and police intelligence agencies. There is also a reflective pause to consider the role of commercial intelligence providers and ethical considerations on intelligence accountability. These components are examined in more detail as four case studies of intelligence failures are used to deconstruct errors and issues experienced during these four high profile operations. Major failures are re-examined as learning opportunities. The troubling relationship between assessment, policy and collection tasking is also examined with a view to emphasizing the importance of oversight and separation of these functions. The course is broken into three components:
The contemporary threat picture and the role of intelligence
Analysts and analysis
Case studies in Intelligence Failures
OBJECTIVES OF THE MODULE:
1 To equip students with an understanding of contemporary security and intelligence issues and the ability to present informed academic opinion on these issues
2 Students will be able to apply critical thinking tools to security and intelligence problems
3 Demonstrate the preparation and presentation of intelligence management written and oral communications.
4 Describe (with reference to recent intelligence failures) the issues and challenges in coordinating intelligence collection from multiple sources and lessons learned.
There will be a 4-hour seminar each week.
Grading
- Group Seminar topic presentation 20%
- Seminar participation 20%
- Briefing Note 20%
- Term paper 40%
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
Dover, Goodman and Hillebrand (2014) Routledge companion to Intelligence Studies Routledge
ISBN: 978-0-415-50752-3
Johnson (2009) Handbook of Intelligence Studies Routledge
ISBN: 978-0-415-77783-4
Richards (2010) The Art and Science of Intelligence Analysis OUP
ISBN: 978-0—19-957845-0
RECOMMENDED READING:
Aldrich and Wark (2009) Secret Intelligence A Reader Routledge I
ISBN: 978-0-415-42023-5
Johnson (2012) The Oxford Handbook of National Security Intelligence OUP
ISBN: 978-0-19-537588-6
Department Undergraduate Notes:
Registrar Notes:
SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.
Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS