OUR PHILOSOPHY
There is a word in Japanese - jittai - that translates broadly to “truth”, “true state”, or “actual condition”.
In some interpretations, jittai means “substance” or “state of affairs”. It distinguishes fact from fiction, objective from subjective meaning - what is, from wishing it were so.
Jittai is the essence of things.
In a world of extremes and contested meanings, between ideas and hallucinations, we find and hold the centre.
OUR PRINCIPLES
Ethical, reasoned pursuit of evidence and insight, adhering to principles of integrity, balance and diligence, is the path to research of enduring value.
Research involves many things. Ultimately it is about purposeful investigation, systematic observation and the spirit of discovery.
Be mindful of historical uniqueness, the sensitivity of initial conditions, and the narcissism of minor differences. They point the way, but not always correctly.
Knowledge for its own sake is a positive good, but it should serve a purpose, without succumbing to the whims of fashion, fortune or politics.
Evidence can be found in many shapes and forms. Knowing what they mean is essential to understanding the substance that can be extracted from them.
Thorough review and understanding of what is already known is fundamental to original research, and arguably more important than methodological innovation.
Knowledge is a cumulative effort with its eye to the horizon. It should not be determined by what has come before, or its limits set by what is currently known.
Method is vital to systematic inquiry. It is a tool, and should support the investigative process, not replace it or become a substitute for critical thinking.
Effective management of information, with close attention to precedent and chain of custody, is fundamental to sound investigation and analytical precision.
Meticulous sourcing and attention to detail are cornerstones of reliable research and enlightened decision-making. Without them there is only abstraction.
WHO WE ARE
Mike Innes founded Craighead Kellas to work on important issues.
As a boutique firm in a crowded market, CKS provides clients with an increasingly rare commodity: a specialised, bespoke service committed to research excellence.
Our principles reflect this approach. So does every member of the CKS team working behind the scenes. Experienced professionals, they honed their competencies on the big issues - everything from counter-terrorism and war crimes to the frontiers of technology innovation.
Their backgrounds are in military and diplomatic service, international organisations, and some of the most recognizable private sector and civil society organizations around, covering rule of law, geopolitics, and strategic and operational risk.