The Cognitive Crucible cover image

#173 John Gentry on Active Measures, Reflexive Control, and Useful Idiots

The Cognitive Crucible

00:00

Espionage and Cultural Manipulation

This chapter examines the historical and contemporary strategies of Soviet and Russian intelligence in exploiting vulnerabilities within target countries, focusing on cultural understanding and disinformation. It discusses the role of local operatives, the significance of tailored influence operations, and the psychological manipulation of 'useful idiots' in such campaigns. The chapter also highlights the ethical challenges encountered in addressing foreign influence operations within educational institutions, particularly in the context of controversies surrounding Confucius Institutes.

Transcript
Play full episode

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app