Historically, and particularly in more recent years, Public Policy Think Tanks have assumed a critical role in researching, developing and implementing public policy recommendations that ultimately are translated into actual federal programs.  These organizations provide a wealth of invaluable information that can assist persons across the world in filtering through some of the complexities associated with the federal process as they attempt to tackle challenges in their respective communities.  Public Policy Think Tanks have conservative, progressive and neutral leanings covering the full spectrum of issues of interest to persons from every walk of life. 

A 2007 survey published by James G. McGann, a Senior Fellow and Director of the Think Tanks and Civil Societies Program of the Foreign Policy Research Institute, entitled “The Global ‘Go-To Think Tanks’” - www.fpri.org, notes that there are 5,080 Think Tanks around the world that are doing significant work in expanding knowledge and shaping policy.  At least 1,776 of these organizations are located in the United States, with at least 91 percent of that number being established after 1951.  A short list of some of the most active players follows.  For a more exhaustive list, please check out McGann’s survey at www.fpri.org. Also, if you know of any others that should be added, just drop me a note at aestell@anitaestell.com.