THE HUMAN FACTOR: A HYBRID BOOK REVIEW OF DR CHARLES VANDEPEER’S Applied Thinking for Intelligence Analysis: A Guide for Practitioners

Abstract

BOOK REVIEW

Training manuals for Intelligence Analysts can vary in their focus, depending on where within the world of security science their intended audience sits.  This book, which could be argued to be one such training manual, is quite unique in two regards.  One, it provides an overview of Intelligence Analysis invaluable for those outside or on the periphery of the community, which this review argues should see it included as required reading for all those working with or intending to work with the profession.  Two, it focuses on the human factors, skills, and fallibilities fundamental to the profession, yet so often treated as a small chapter or afterthought within a more technical, instructional picture. The author offers excellent practical solutions and options to mitigate the dangers of overconfidence in all its manifestations and encourages humility.  As such, it is not just a manual for those being initiated into Intelligence Analysis, but also for those well-versed but humble enough to recognise the value of refreshing old skills and perspectives.  This review also highlights elements of the book that potentially speak to the future of Intelligence Analysis and could reignite important debates or encourage new perspectives and research.