Fritz Smith
Abstract:
This article examines the influence of three conservative think tanks on President Reagan’s national security policy. Although think tanks, both conservative and liberal, have long played a role in shaping the policies of various presidents, Reagan’s close ties with many prominent figures in conservative think tanks suggest that their influence will be heightened under his administration. The three organizations examined in this article are the American Enterprise Institute (AEI), the Georgetown University Center for Strategic and International Studies, and the Heritage Foundation. These think tanks may prove to be influential in the Reagan administration for several reasons. First, all three advocate increased military spending, a policy which Reagan is undoubtedly in favor of implementing. Secondly, all three have members that have taken positions within the Reagan administration, which indicates that Reagan respects these organizations enough to surround himself with some of their prominent figures. Since these think tanks are likely to have a prominent influence on Reagan defense policy, some are questioning whether or not this is a positive development. Some argue that having a group of unelected individuals influencing policy decisions is inherently undemocratic. However, others argue that it is necessary to maintain a healthy debate of ideas to ensure that a diversity of viewpoints is available. Regardless, President Reagan holds the research of these think tanks in high esteem, as evidenced by his speech at AEI where he promised to maintain a working relationship with them. Therefore, understanding the policy orientations of these groups may help in understanding the defense policy of the Reagan administration itself.
Keywords: Conservative, think tank, Reagan, AEI, Georgetown, Heritage, foreign policy
