Matthew Burd
CYSE 201S
3/27/25
Cybersecurity Analysts: Implicated Social Sciences
Social science concepts like objectivity, relativism, parsimony, determinism, and skepticism, as discussed in this class, are used by cybersecurity analysts to predict cyber threats, create efficient security measures, and reduce risks. These principles assist them in navigating relationships with minorities and guarantee moral security procedures that balance privacy, inclusivity, and protection.
Introduction
Analysts in cybersecurity work at the connection of human behavior and technology as their job is to see if human or other online behavior is malicious in intent. Their success frequently hinges on their comprehension of social science concepts, even if their main responsibility is to safeguard digital systems and data from unwanted access. To assess human behavior, forecast cyber threats, and create security regulations that consider human psychology, these experts rely on social science research. Additionally, cybersecurity analysts regularly engage with underrepresented populations and the general public, highlighting the importance of a moral and inclusive approach. This paper explores the use of social science ideas like objectivity, relativism, parsimony, determinism, and skepticism in cybersecurity professions and their social ramifications.
The Application of Social Science in Cybersecurity
Understanding and preventing social engineering are vital areas where social science research plays a key role in cybersecurity. Attacks like phishing and pretexting exploit psychological principles such as authority, urgency, and trust. To develop training programs that enable users to recognize and counter these tactics, cybersecurity professionals utilize insights from psychology and sociology (Montañez et al., 2020). Successful security awareness campaigns demand an understanding of cognitive biases, including the tendency to comply with authority figures or be swayed by persuasive language. In this context, objectivity becomes crucial as security experts must assess threats based on empirical evidence rather than vague assumptions. Another important use of social science is analyzing online behavior. Cybersecurity experts can foresee and mitigate threats by studying trends in user conduct, behavioral psychology, and criminology. For instance, behavioral analytics in Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems can highlight anomalies indicative of insider threats or cyberattacks (NASEM, 2019). This approach reflects a deterministic perspective since many cybersecurity professionals believe certain behavioral trends can signal future security breaches. Additionally, skepticism is necessary when evaluating security risks, as analysts must question the accuracy of all incoming information and potential attack pathways.
Cybersecurity strategies also embody the principle of parsimony. Cybersecurity analysts emphasize straightforward solutions that can be easily implemented rather than complex security measures that may confuse users. For example, multifactor authentication (MFA) reduces reliance on passwords alone by introducing an additional verification step, simplifying the security process. By minimizing unnecessary complexity in security protocols, this principle promotes user compliance and overall effectiveness safety.
Cybersecurity, Marginalized Groups, and Society
Cybersecurity policies significantly affect underrepresented populations. Many vulnerable groups, such as low-income individuals and seniors, often lack access to cybersecurity tools and information, making them prime targets for cybercriminals. Cybersecurity professionals, including analysts, must consider relativism and ensure that security solutions are adaptable to different social environments and user needs. For example, simplified security protocols and public awareness initiatives aimed at non-technical audiences can help bridge this digital divide (Montañez et al., 2020). Moreover, minority communities may face disproportionate effects from cybersecurity enforcement. Surveillance methods and data collection often raise ethical concerns regarding discrimination and privacy (Bodó et al., 2020). In this context, skepticism is vital as cybersecurity professionals need to scrutinize regulations to ensure they uphold civil liberties. Ethical considerations must carefully balance security measures with justice to avoid unfairly targeting specific demographic groups.
Conclusion
To comprehend human behavior, create security rules that work, and handle societal ramifications, cybersecurity experts, like cybersecurity analysts, mostly rely on social science concepts. Professionals can foresee cyber threats, reduce risks, and advance inclusive security measures by incorporating psychology, sociology, and criminology into their work. Objectivity, relativism, parsimony, determinism, and skepticism are applied to make sure cybersecurity methods are ethical, effective, and balanced. The nexus of social science and technology will continue to be essential in establishing a safe and just digital environment as cybersecurity develops.
References
Bodó, B., Helberger, N., Eskens, S., Möller, J., & Irion, K. (2020). Interested but not willing: The complicated relationship between privacy attitudes and behaviors. Frontiers in Psychology, 11, 1755. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01755
Montañez, R., Golob, E., & Xu, S. (2020). Human Cognition Through the Lens of Social Engineering Cyberattacks. Frontiers in psychology, 11, 1755. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01755
National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. (2019). A decadal survey of the social and behavioral sciences: A research agenda for advancing intelligence analysis. National Academies Press. https://doi.org/10.17226/25335