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Psychologist undercover: George Kelly and the Central Intelligence Agency.
1Division of Academic Affairs, State University of New York at New Paltz.
The American Psychologist
|October 16, 2025
Summary
George Kelly
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- History
- Intelligence Studies
Background:
- George Kelly, developer of personal construct psychology (PCP), traveled globally in 1960-1961.
- His trip was funded by the Human Ecology Fund, a known Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) front.
- Kelly's academic interactions and lectures occurred during this period.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate George Kelly's potential awareness and involvement with the CIA.
- To examine evidence linking Kelly's world trip to CIA initiatives, including MKULTRA.
- To consolidate existing but scattered proof of Kelly's intelligence agency activities.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of historical records and newly uncovered documents.
- Examination of Kelly's travel itinerary and professional engagements.
- Review of evidence pertaining to CIA programs like MKULTRA.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests George Kelly was aware of the CIA funding and likely reported to them.
- Kelly's travels were a formally proposed project under the CIA's MKULTRA program.
- Kelly may have participated in other CIA initiatives beyond this specific trip.
Conclusions:
- George Kelly's involvement with the CIA is supported by substantial evidence.
- This finding impacts the understanding of Kelly's legacy and Cold War psychology.
- The study highlights challenges for historians examining intelligence agency influence.
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