The American intelligence community (IC) is a complex network of 18 different agencies constantly vying for authority and resources. This competition, along with the ongoing effort to balance civilian and military organizations within the IC, is the focus of today’s discussion. Dr. Jeff Rogg, a senior research fellow at the Global and National Security Institute, joins podcast editor Ron Granieri to explore the history of the U.S. intelligence system, highlighting its civilian-military dynamics and the critical balance between national security and civil liberties. They delve into the roles of key figures like William Donovan and examine the challenges faced by various Directors of Central Intelligence as they navigate the intricate relationship between military and civilian agencies. This insightful conversation also raises questions about potential reforms needed within the intelligence community, especially considering the growing capabilities of surveillance technology and the need to preserve individual freedoms while ensuring national security.
Intelligence is entirely un-American…it goes against the grain of everything we deeply believe.
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Jeff Rogg, PhD, JD, is Senior Research Fellow at the Global and National Security Institute (GNSI) at the University of South Florida (USF) where he conducts policy relevant research in the areas of intelligence, grand strategy, and national security. He holds a BA from Swarthmore College, a JD from Villanova, an MA in security studies from Georgetown, and a PhD in history from The Ohio State University. His book The Spy and the State: The History of American Intelligence, will be published by Oxford University Press in spring 2025.
Ron Granieri is Professor of History at the U.S. Army War College and the Editor of A BETTER PEACE.
The views expressed in this presentation are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect those of the U.S. Army War College, U.S. Army, or Department of Defense.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence