The Chains That Bind Us - Theory-guided semi-structured interviews on epistemic cognition with security analysts as representatives of a given strategic subculture and epistemic community

Abstract

This pro gradu thesis applies the research literature of epistemic cognition to conduct semi-structured interviews on a set of security analysts. Individual security analysts play a key role in how various state entities sense the world through their function as actors who simplify various sources of data and information for others to base decisions upon, the implications of which may range from policing initiatives to matters of international security based upon the organization that they represent within the given state structure or private entity. Here the theoretical traditions of epistemic communities and strategic cultures play a part, by viewing these individual security organizations as separate, but connected epistemic communities which function as strategic subcultures contributing to a given national strategic culture. So, the cognitive functions of individual analysts are seen to directly influence state behavior at both national and international levels by functioning as actors who filter and simplify various of forms of knowledge for decision-makers through different processes. The thesis illustrates the usefulness of the research literature on epistemic cognition as a novel approach to researching the cognitive biases related to the work of security analysts. The results indicate specific adaptive strategies amongst the respondents for resolving structural limitations to epistemic processes related to their field in the forms of secrecy, uncertainty, and specific timeframes. The thesis provides groundwork for future research in developing analytical methods based on its findings.