The role of think tanks in US foreign policy

Think tanks, as research and analytical organizations, play an important role in the policy-making process. In the United States, these non-governmental institutions have a significant impact on macro-decision-making by producing knowledge and providing policy solutions. However, the extent and nature of their influence on American foreign policy has been less closely examined. This study attempts to answer the question of how and to what extent American think tanks influence the foreign policy of this country? This article uses an analytical and library method and the theoretical framework of Rosena's continuity to examine the influence of think tanks on the foreign policy of the United States. Unlike previous studies that emphasized the general role of think tanks in policy-making, this study specifically focuses on the extent and methods of influence of American think tanks in foreign policy. Information sources include scientific articles, research reports, and documents related to the performance of think tanks in the foreign policy of this country. The results of the study show that American think tanks play an important role in American foreign policy by providing reports and policy recommendations, participating in congressional hearings, providing expertise to the government, and shaping public discourse. These institutions help to increase the awareness of political decision-makers and improve the quality of foreign policymaking through scientific and data-driven analyses. Also, the strong presence of some think tanks in the power structure and close ties with government institutions have led to their greater influence.