Stranger than fiction: imagination as an instrument of national security

How can fiction influence national security policy and its development? What is the role of fiction in future scenario planning? How does reading fiction assist with developing empathy, and why is this important to the national security community?

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Danielle Ireland-Piper, Chris Uhlmann and John Birmingham join Dayle Stanley in conversation to discuss the role of fiction in national security and policy making.

Dr Danielle Ireland-Piper is Associate Professor at the ANU National Security College and an Honorary Adjunct Associate Professor in the Faculty of Law at Bond University.

Chris Uhlmann is an author and former journalist and broadcaster who was political editor for both the ABC and Nine News.  

John Birmingham is a former Defence researcher turned author and journalist. His work spans across genres including science fiction, alternative history and non-fiction.

Dayle Stanley is the Director of Strategy and Engagement at the Futures Hub at the ANU National Security College. 

Show notes:

• Blog post: Fiction and national security by Dr Danielle Ireland-Piper 
• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more

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