Peter Gill

In the second decade of the 21st century, the academic study of intelligence continues to develop apace, as evidenced by the growth in publishing, undergraduate and postgraduate academic courses that combine historical and social science approaches, the increase in undergraduate programs in intelligence analysis aimed at those seeking to enter the profession, and the development of professional training courses internationally. The idea of “intelligence studies” provides the overarching context, but among those working within the field, understandings vary as to precisely what it is or should be. This is an opportune moment to reflect on our approaches to the study of intelligence, the assumptions underpinning them, and how the study has evolved since the 1950s. In doing this, we identify three key questions that need to be considered: What is “intelligence studies”?; should it be considered to be, or should it aspire to become, a “discipline”?; and who is it for? This article offers answers to each of these questions and identifies the main areas of work within contemporary intelligence studies in terms of four projects: the research/historical, the definitional/methodological, the organizational/functional, and the governance/policy.

This introductory article discusses some of the main themes that are contained within this collection originally delivered as papers to two conferences. There is brief consideration of some issues of method and major themes relating to the legacy of authoritarian regimes, the process of change and the current state of ‘democracy’ are identified. Continuing controversies and uncertainties around intelligence have important implications for democratic governance in many countries which must encourage more comparative work in this key area of intelligence studies.