Routledge Handbook of Disinformation and National Security

Disinformation is a complex security phenomenon that is used to propagate false, inexact, or out of context information. This Handbook provides an in-depth analysis of disinformation and offers a toolkit to counter such tactics. It is divided into six thematic sections, including a set of theoretical approaches, a historical perspective, a contemporary challenge, information and communication practices, regional experiences, and international policy responses. It is of interest to students of national security, propaganda studies, media and communications studies, intelligence studies, and International Relations in general.

Format: Hardback
Length: 443 pages
Publication date: 17 November 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Disinformation, a multifaceted security phenomenon, has emerged as a potent tool in political manipulation and information warfare, thriving both online and offline. This comprehensive Handbook delves into the intricate nature of disinformation, tracing its historical roots and examining ongoing practices in overt state propaganda and covert information operations. It uncovers the methods employed by propaganda actors, the vulnerabilities they exploit within democratic societies, and the current strategies employed to counter disinformation and foster resilient audiences.

The Handbook is structured into six thematic sections, offering a comprehensive framework for understanding and addressing disinformation. The first part provides theoretical perspectives on hostile influencing, disinformation, and covert information operations. The second part explores disinformation and propaganda in historical context, presenting case study analyses and highlighting the challenges posed by disinformation in contemporary society. The third section focuses on understanding the contemporary challenges posed by disinformation and hostile influencing, while the fourth part examines information and communication practices employed for countering disinformation and building resilience. The fifth part analyzes specific regional experiences in countering and deterring disinformation, as well as international policy responses from transnational institutions and security practitioners. Finally, the sixth part presents a practical toolkit for practitioners to counter disinformation and hostile influencing.

This Handbook is of immense interest to students of national security, propaganda studies, media and communications studies, and intelligence studies. It provides a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to understanding and countering disinformation, equipping practitioners with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate the complex landscape of information warfare. By addressing the multifaceted nature of disinformation, this Handbook contributes to the broader effort to promote truth, transparency, and democratic resilience in an era characterized by misinformation and propaganda.

Weight: 998g
Dimension: 180 x 254 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032040509