Discussion Covert Action and Intelligence

Resources
Read/review the following resources for this activity:

• Textbook: Chapter 3, 4
• Lecture 3, 4
• Link (video): Challenges for Clandestine Intelligence Collection in Support of U.S. Middle East Policy   
• Link (PDF): A Systems Approach to Intelligence
• Link (website): Managing Covert Political Action
• 
  

Introduction
The process of needing intelligence in securing the answers are the steps of the intelligence gathering process.

Initial Post
Using the information in Chapter 4, what parts of the intelligence process, do you consider most important? Can you advocate for one of the historical scenarios listed in chapter 2? Provide support for your answer. 

Secondary Posts
Read postings provided by your instructor or fellow students. Read and respond to the conclusions drawn by your classmates. Remember to read the feedback to your own major postings and reply throughout the week. 

Writing Requirements

• In addition to one initial post, respond to at least two peers.
• Initial Post Length: minimum of 250 words
• Secondary Post Length: minimum of 200 words per post
• Using APA format, provide at least one citation with corresponding references page and use appropriate in-text citation(s) referring to the academic concept for the initial post.

Grading and Assessment

Meeting the minimum number of posting does not guarantee an A; you must present an in-depth discussion of high quality, integrate sources to support your assertions, and refer to peers’ comments in your secondary posts to build on concepts. 

This activity will be graded using the Discussion Forum Grading Rubric.

Course Learning Outcome(s): 1, 3, 5
1.   Assess the theoretical effectiveness of intelligence and covert action with regard to analyzing governmental structure and national security policy.
3.   Define the U.S. Intelligence Community.
5.   Examine the history and structure of U.S. intelligence.