Manhattan Institute for Policy Research[edit]

The Manhattan Institute for Policy Research is a non-profit think tank based in New York City. Founded in 1978, the institute conducts research and analysis on various issues including economic policy, urban affairs, public safety, education, and social policy. The Manhattan Institute advocates for free-market solutions to complex social and economic problems and is known for its focus on promoting conservative policies.

History[edit]

The Manhattan Institute was founded in 1978 by economist William J. Stern with the goal of promoting policies that reflect market-oriented solutions to public policy challenges. The institute was established during a period of urban crisis in New York City and focused initially on issues related to urban policy, particularly crime reduction and economic development in cities.

Over the years, the Manhattan Institute expanded its focus to include broader public policy issues such as taxation, economic regulation, education reform, and healthcare. Today, the institute is one of the leading conservative think tanks in the United States, and it plays a significant role in shaping discussions on urban policy, economic growth, and social justice.

Mission[edit]

The mission of the Manhattan Institute for Policy Research is to advance a free-market, limited-government approach to solving social and economic challenges. The institute conducts research to inform policymakers, the public, and the media on critical issues such as economic growth, education reform, public safety, and the role of government in society.

The Manhattan Institute is committed to:

Promoting free-market policies that foster economic growth and job creation.
Providing evidence-based policy solutions that address issues related to crime, education, and urban development.
Advancing conservative principles of individual freedom, personal responsibility, and limited government.

Research Areas and Programs[edit]

The Manhattan Institute conducts research in several key areas, including:

**Economic Policy**: The institute advocates for lower taxes, reduced government spending, and deregulation as a means of stimulating economic growth. It conducts research on fiscal policy, economic inequality, taxation, and the role of government in the economy.
**Urban Affairs and Public Safety**: Manhattan Institute has been particularly focused on urban policy, including crime reduction, economic development, and improving the quality of life in cities. The institute is known for its work in advocating for policies that reduce crime and promote public safety, including support for policing strategies and criminal justice reform.
**Education**: The institute supports school choice, charter schools, and other reforms aimed at improving education outcomes, particularly for disadvantaged communities. It conducts research on education policy and advocates for policies that give parents more control over their children’s education.
**Healthcare**: The Manhattan Institute supports market-driven healthcare solutions and reforms aimed at reducing costs and improving access to care. The institute conducts research on healthcare reform, focusing on issues such as competition, private-sector solutions, and reducing government involvement in healthcare.
**Social Policy**: The institute conducts research on social issues such as poverty, welfare, and family structure, advocating for policies that promote individual responsibility and reduce dependency on government programs.
**Environmental Policy**: While the Manhattan Institute supports environmental protection, it advocates for policies that rely on market forces and innovation rather than heavy-handed regulation. The institute conducts research on issues such as climate change, energy policy, and environmental regulation.

Leadership[edit]

The Manhattan Institute is governed by a Board of Trustees and led by a President. The leadership team includes prominent scholars, economists, and policy experts who help shape the institute’s research agenda and strategic direction.

As of March 2025, the President of the Manhattan Institute is Reihan Salam, an economist and policy analyst known for his work on economic policy, immigration, and social issues. Salam’s leadership has been marked by a focus on broadening the institute’s reach and influence on issues such as economic growth, urban policy, and the future of American conservatism.

Influence and Impact[edit]

The Manhattan Institute is one of the leading conservative think tanks in the U.S., and its research and policy recommendations have influenced public debates on a wide range of issues, particularly in the areas of urban policy, public safety, and education reform. The institute’s research is frequently cited by policymakers, academics, journalists, and advocacy groups.

The Manhattan Institute has been instrumental in shaping conservative public policy in New York City and nationwide. Its work has helped to influence policies related to crime reduction, education reform, housing, and tax policy. The institute’s scholars regularly testify before congressional committees, contribute to policy discussions, and engage with the media to provide expert analysis on current issues.

Publications and Resources[edit]

The Manhattan Institute publishes a wide range of reports, books, policy briefs, and articles to disseminate its research findings. Some of its key publications include:

**City Journal**: The Manhattan Institute’s flagship publication, City Journal is a quarterly magazine that covers urban policy, public safety, economic development, and social issues in cities. It features articles and essays by leading scholars and policymakers.
**Policy Reports**: The institute regularly publishes in-depth reports on topics ranging from economic policy to education reform. These reports provide analysis and policy recommendations based on the institute’s research.
**Manhattan Institute Books**: The institute publishes books and edited volumes on a variety of topics related to public policy, economics, and social issues.
**Research Briefs and Fact Sheets**: The Manhattan Institute produces shorter, more accessible publications that highlight key research findings and provide concise policy recommendations on specific issues.
**Blogs and Online Resources**: The institute’s website features blog posts, articles, and op-eds on a variety of topics, offering timely analysis and commentary from Manhattan Institute scholars.

Funding and Independence[edit]

The Manhattan Institute is a non-profit organization that is primarily funded through donations, grants, and contributions from individuals, foundations, and corporations. The institute is committed to maintaining its independence and ensuring that its research remains objective and free from political or corporate influence.

As a non-partisan think tank, the Manhattan Institute seeks to provide research that is driven by evidence and rigorous analysis, rather than ideological considerations. It provides independent policy recommendations based on a commitment to the principles of free markets, individual liberty, and limited government.

Criticism and Controversies[edit]

While the Manhattan Institute is highly regarded for its research and policy contributions, it has faced criticism from some progressive and liberal groups. Critics argue that the institute’s conservative stance on issues such as taxation, social safety nets, and education reform may disproportionately benefit the wealthy and overlook the needs of marginalized communities.

Despite these criticisms, the Manhattan Institute continues to defend its work as rooted in the principles of individual responsibility, economic opportunity, and limited government intervention.

External Links[edit]

Official Website: [1](https://www.manhattan-institute.org/)
Manhattan Institute on YouTube: [2](https://www.youtube.com/user/ManhattanInst)
Manhattan Institute on Twitter: [@ManhattanInst](https://twitter.com/ManhattanInst)

References[edit]