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In a time of global unrest and widespread misinformation and propaganda, access to reliable, research-informed perspectives is more important than ever. Faculty at 91ÅÝܽ (SFU) play a vital role in helping the public and media make sense of complex global issues through their expertise and critical analysis.

James Horncastle is the Edward and Emily McWhinney Professor in International Relations in the Department of Global Humanities at SFU. Through his research, teaching and collaboration, he is contributing to informed discourse on global events.

Horncastle has contributed a remarkable to The Conversation Canada, the country’s leading publisher of research-based news and analysis. His works discuss the Russia-Ukraine war and military strategy; the historical context of Eastern European conflict; the Trump administration, NATO and international security; disinformation and propaganda in conflict; modern military technology and much more.

He provides regular media commentary, and was recognized as the 2023 SFU Media Newsmaker of the Year for his contributions to media coverage of global conflicts. His expert and unbiased observations have been featured in news stories around the world.

Horncastle is also a founding member of the Memory and Trauma Through History and Culture research cluster, an interdisciplinary group of researchers investigating interpretations of memory, trauma and conflict throughout history and through a contemporary lens.

We spoke to professor Horncastle about his work.

What do you see as the university’s role in helping the public understand global conflicts and international affairs?

In an age of misinformation, universities have a key role in society in combating the false narratives that conflict engenders. While the nature of conflict and international affairs means that the information academics possess is often limited, it is our duty to provide critical analysis with what material is available. While academics may not always agree with each other’s analyses, it is through the process of critically interrogating the evidence and the analyses of other academics that we can better inform society.

How do symbolic narratives and propaganda influence public perception of conflict and how can audiences critically unpack them?   

Symbolic narratives and propaganda play a key role in contemporary conflict, as the encompassing nature of war means that societies are as much the target as armies themselves. The Russia-Ukraine conflict is demonstrative of this, and in particular, how Russian influence campaigns have obscured the actual reasons behind the conflict. Audiences need to rely less on social media for their information and more on established and legitimate news organizations to help break down the algorithmic filters created by social media.

Are there historical patterns you see repeating in today’s conflicts, and what lessons can we learn from them?

Although I am loath to say that history repeats itself, there are certain trends that occur with regularity. In the case of the conflict in Russia-Ukraine and elsewhere (Israel-Palestine, Sudan, etc.), the inability of North American and European countries to prepare for, let alone understand and remain focused on, the dimensions of a protracted conflict is a troubling trend that has parallels elsewhere in history. In most instances, this laxity regarding protracted war has put these countries at a disadvantage, as they are forced to confront a threat for which they are unprepared.

What role do emerging technologies like drones play in reshaping modern warfare, and do you have concerns about how this technology is evolving?

Scholars and journalists have written a considerable amount about the potential for drones and emerging technologies to reshape modern warfare. That said, we need to be cautious about reaching conclusions too rapidly. Arms development is a game of moves and countermoves, and in the case of how drones are used in Ukraine, we are already seeing new and effective countermeasures emerge in the conflict.

What are the most effective ways for scholars and journalists to counter disinformation during wartime?

The most effective way for scholars and journalists to counter disinformation in wartime is to remain engaged even as the news cycle shifts. There is a tendency of journalists and scholars to focus on the story of the day, but if they remain focused on particular conflicts, it would allow for a greater understanding of said wars. In so doing, journalists and scholars can then hopefully better identify paths for the return of peace.

For more: See James Horncastle’s articles in , and his Research Expertise Engine profile.