Power and knowledge can be equated. Gathering information and using it to support formal, structured decision-making is not a new idea. Having as up-to-date and accurate an understanding of an adversary’s capabilities and intentions as possible is critical to gaining an advantage (Verganti et al., 2020). This principle applies to all professions, including economics, military strategy, and criminal intelligence. Furthermore, it is a process of continuous development and evolution in response to changes in social and cultural factors, technology, organizational requirements, and new or higher levels of analytical capabilities. The study of the “roots” of intelligence and analysis as a methodology and profession, and its historical context, is a fruitful and significant activity. When we better understand their roots, it becomes easier for us to understand where intelligence and analysis came from and how/why we got where we are today. It also makes us aware that intelligence analysis is a constantly changing and evolving discipline that requires new approaches, skills and approaches to remain current and valuable in real-world applications (UNODC, 2020). For an intelligence analyst worth their salt, no two jobs or projects are exactly alike; each new artifact requires a different strategy. continue…