Throughout history, counterintelligence has played a key role in U.S. national security. From 1956 to 1971, the FBI conducted a series of controversial and sometimes illegal domestic counterintelligence operations referred to as COINTELPRO (counterintelligence program).
The ultimate goal of these FBI operations was to disrupt, discredit, and destroy certain political groups, civil rights groups, and radical organizations that potentially posed a threat to U.S. national security. This program was officially disbanded in the 1970s after a series of inquiries and investigations into the legality of the program.
Some critics argue that the COINTEL program was disbanded in name only and that the FBI continues its controversial domestic counterintelligence operations to this day. Others argue that the COINTEL program was and is a necessary tool used by the FBI to protect U.S. national security.
Primary Task Response: Within the Discussion Board area, write 400-600 words that respond to the following questions with your thoughts, ideas, and comments. This will be the foundation for future discussions by your classmates. Be substantive and clear, and use examples to reinforce your ideas:
• What impact do you think COINTELPRO had on the evolution of U.S. counterintelligence? Explain.
o What activities, if any, do you feel were the most shocking in terms of ethics and legality? Why?
o What activities, if any, do you feel were completely necessary to ensure national security? Why?
• Overall, do you feel that the controversial counterintelligence tactics used during COINTELPRO were necessary to protect U.S. national security?
• Are there any circumstances where you feel this type of domestic counterintelligence should be allowed? Why or why not?
o Your posting should be more than just opinion and should present a valid argument that is supported by factual information.
Responses to Other Students: Respond to at least 2 of your fellow classmates with at least a 100-word reply about their Primary Task Response regarding items you found to be compelling and enlightening. To help you with your discussion, please consider the following questions:
• What did you learn from your classmate's posting?
• What additional questions do you have after reading the posting?
• What clarification do you need regarding the posting?
• What differences or similarities do you see between your posting and other classmate's postings?
For assistance with your assignment, please use your text, Web resources, and all course materials.
Reading Assignment
George & Kline: Chapters 3-5
Assignment Objectives
• Describe and discuss the history and evolution of counterintelligence.