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Global CyberPolitics

Knowledge Architecture

The knowledge architecture is derived from, and based on, the Global System for Sustainable Development (GSSD). It is adapted to the content of CyberIR.

The knowledge architecture consists of four interconnected knowledge segments, applicable to issues characterized by uncertainty and complexity: (i) Domains: arena-specific properties of actors & actions, (ii) Dimensions: activities, problems and solutions for each domain, (iii) Cells: intersections of dimensions and domains; and (iv) Concepts: key sub-topics within each cell.

Domains of Actors & Actions

The system is constructed in content-specific modules and organized into four distinct domains —introduced earlier:

  • Joint CyberIR System, defined by layers of the Internet and levels of analysis in international relations extended to the global level; also includes structures, functions, and processes at the intersection of the two areas.
  • Governance & Institutions represent the operational features of authority systems with supportive properties and mechanisms designed to stabilize structures and functions embedded in and surrounding the Cyber-IR domain.
  • Conflict & War captures system-threats, spanning the sources and consequences of multiple pressures that undermine the security and resilience of the joint Cyber-IR system whole or parts.
  • Cybersecurity & Sustainability captures cyber-driven threats, modes of response & their various features, as well as the support for and threats to system stability & resilience over time.

The Figure below shows the domains of CyberIR@MIT.

Domains of actors and actions.

DOMAINS OF ACTORS & ACTIONS.
Source: Choucri, N., Fairman, L., & Agarwal, G. (2021). CyberIR@MIT: Knowledge for science, policy, practice (Working Paper No. 2021-1). MIT Political Science Department. Note: Based on gssd.mit.edu. See also Mapping Sustainability (Choucri et al., 2007).

Dimensions of Actors & Actions

Each domain is framed and differentiated in terms of four characteristic features, each distinctive in its own right — shown below:

  • System State—characteristic features and properties of the domain in its “as is” state.
  • System Problems—manifestations of recognized, anticipated, simulated, or other aspects of problems surrounding or embedded in the system state.
  • Scientific & Technological Solutions & Strategies—including formal and informal efforts, initiatives, regulations, and policies created in response to system problems.
  • Socio-Economic & Political Solutions & Strategies—including formal and informal efforts, initiatives, regulations, and policies created in response to system problems.

The Figure below signals the dimensions.

Dimensions of actors and actions.
DIMENSIONS OF ACTORS AND ACTIONS.
Source: Choucri, N., Fairman, L., & Agarwal, G. (2021). CyberIR@MIT: Knowledge for science, policy, practice (Working Paper No. 2021-1). MIT Political Science Department.

Intersection

Intersection is the knowledge “space” at the juncture of individual domains and dimensions. Intersections provide access to more focused or detailed knowledge about system properties. See the Figure below.

Intersection of Domain & Dimensions.

INTERSECTION OF DOMAIN & DIMENSIONS.
Source: Choucri, N., Fairman, L., & Agarwal, G. (2021). CyberIR@MIT: Knowledge for science, policy, practice (Working Paper No. 2021-1). MIT Political Science Department. Note: Based on gssd.mit.edu. See also Mapping Sustainability (Choucri et al., 2007).

So far, we have presented the knowledge system in terms of domains, dimensions, and intersections. 

We now turn to the high-level integrated view – at the first-order.

References: