Stuff You Should Know Selects: What are think tanks all about?
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Jun 1, 2024 Dive into the intriguing world of think tanks and their complex role in shaping public policy! Explore the evolution from unbiased advisors to entities molded by corporate interests. Discover the significant impact of groups like the Brookings Institution and the Heritage Foundation on American politics, especially during pivotal eras. Unpack the challenges of nonpartisanship in a landscape influenced by wealthy donors and advocacy. Plus, enjoy some light-hearted banter on personal pen preferences!
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Think Tanks' Shift
- Think tanks historically provided sound, unbiased policy recommendations to lawmakers.
- Now, they are often driven by special interests, negatively impacting the U.S.
Think Tank Purpose
- Think tanks are nonprofit organizations where people research and analyze problems.
- They develop solutions and present them to the public and policymakers, aiming to influence policy.
Plato's Academy
- Plato's Academy is considered a precursor to modern think tanks.
- Scholars gathered to discuss philosophy and impact change, similar to think tanks' goals.