US Intelligence and Al Qaeda : Analysis by Contrasting Narratives

This book fills a gap in intelligence studies by setting out a new analytic methodology of analysis by contrasting narratives (ACN) defining an enemy and attempting to counter threats potentially can also contribute to the manifestation of the threat and applies it to the problem the US faced in understanding and responding to the phenomenon of Al Qaeda in the 1990s. de Werd demonstrates how this approach can fill a gap in intelligence studies by enhancing the understanding of complex intelligence problems and strengthening the practice of intelligence analysis. Adopting a reflexivist theoretical stance, the book underlines the importance of an integrated approach to interpretation and action, and of a continuous dialogue between intelligence and policy.