American Enterprise Institute

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American Enterprise Institute[edit]

The American Enterprise Institute (AEI) is a non-profit, non-partisan public policy research organization (think tank) based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1938, AEI is dedicated to promoting free markets, individual liberty, and limited government. AEI conducts research and analysis on a variety of policy areas, including economics, foreign policy, defense, healthcare, education, and social welfare.

History[edit]

The American Enterprise Institute was founded in 1938 by a group of conservative economists and intellectuals, including prominent figures such as economist and author Frederick Hayek. AEI was established to provide an alternative to the prevailing economic and social policies of the time, advocating for the principles of free enterprise, limited government, and individual liberty.

In its early years, AEI focused on economic issues and developed a reputation as a leading advocate for free-market policies. Over time, the institute expanded its research to cover a wide range of policy areas, including national security, education, healthcare, and social policy. AEI has become one of the most influential think tanks in the United States, playing a significant role in shaping public policy discussions, particularly in conservative and free-market circles.

Mission[edit]

The mission of the American Enterprise Institute is to promote and protect the values of individual liberty, free markets, and limited government. AEI’s research aims to advance the understanding of policy issues and provide practical solutions to the challenges facing society. The institute's work focuses on ensuring that the principles of free enterprise and market-oriented policies are at the forefront of American political and economic discourse.

AEI’s mission is to help improve public policy through research, analysis, and advocacy that is rooted in conservative and free-market principles. It seeks to provide policymakers with the ideas and knowledge needed to tackle complex issues while promoting a society based on opportunity, prosperity, and individual rights.

Research Areas and Programs[edit]

AEI conducts research and policy analysis in a wide range of areas, including:

  • **Economic Policy**: AEI conducts research on fiscal policy, tax reform, regulatory policy, entitlement programs, and the role of government in the economy. AEI scholars advocate for market-oriented solutions that foster economic growth and financial stability.
  • **Foreign Policy and National Security**: The institute conducts research on U.S. foreign policy, national security, military defense, and international relations. AEI scholars focus on issues such as defense policy, the global order, and the security challenges facing the United States.
  • **Health Care**: AEI scholars analyze the U.S. healthcare system, focusing on topics such as health insurance reform, Medicare, Medicaid, and healthcare access. AEI advocates for reforms that increase competition, reduce government involvement, and improve the efficiency of the healthcare system.
  • **Education Policy**: AEI focuses on improving the U.S. education system through policies that emphasize school choice, charter schools, and market-driven education reforms. The institute advocates for policies that empower parents and promote educational equity.
  • **Social Welfare and Poverty**: AEI conducts research on social welfare programs, focusing on reforms to improve efficiency and reduce dependency. AEI advocates for policies that support self-sufficiency, work opportunities, and reduced government intervention.
  • **Regulation and Labor Markets**: AEI researches issues related to labor markets, including wage growth, labor regulations, and workforce participation. AEI supports policies that encourage job creation, higher wages, and greater economic opportunity for all Americans.

Leadership[edit]

The American Enterprise Institute is governed by a Board of Trustees and led by a President. The organization’s leadership consists of prominent scholars, economists, and policy experts from a variety of disciplines.

As of March 2025, the President of AEI is Robert Doar, who took office in 2019. Doar is a well-known expert in poverty policy and welfare reform, having previously served as commissioner of the New York City Human Resources Administration. Under his leadership, AEI has continued to focus on advancing conservative economic policies, promoting free-market ideas, and providing practical solutions to pressing national issues.

Notable Scholars and Fellows[edit]

AEI has been home to many prominent scholars and experts who have shaped its research and policy work. Some notable figures associated with AEI include:

  • Arthur Brooks: Former President of AEI and a leading advocate for free markets and social mobility.
  • Norman Ornstein: A political scientist and expert on American political institutions, particularly the U.S. Congress.
  • Michael Strain: Director of Economic Policy Studies and expert on labor markets, tax policy, and social welfare.
  • Christina Hoff Sommers: A resident scholar who focuses on issues related to education, feminism, and social policy.
  • John Bolton: Former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and AEI senior fellow specializing in national security and foreign policy.

Publications and Media Outreach[edit]

AEI produces a wide range of publications, including policy papers, books, and articles. Some of the key publications include:

  • **AEI Economics Working Papers**: Research papers that provide in-depth analysis of current economic policy issues and potential reforms.
  • **AEI Publications**: AEI publishes reports, books, and policy briefs on a variety of topics, from tax reform to foreign policy.
  • **AEI Blog**: The AEI blog provides timely commentary and analysis on current events and policy debates from AEI scholars.
  • **Foreign Affairs**: AEI scholars contribute regularly to *Foreign Affairs*, *The Wall Street Journal*, *The New York Times*, and other major publications.
  • **Podcasts and Videos**: AEI produces podcasts and video content that feature discussions with scholars and policymakers on pressing issues. These are available on AEI's website and social media channels.

AEI scholars are frequently quoted in national and international media outlets, and the institute’s publications are widely cited by policymakers, academics, and journalists.

Funding and Independence[edit]

The American Enterprise Institute is a privately funded organization that relies on donations from individuals, foundations, and other private sources. AEI does not accept government funding, which allows it to maintain its independence and objectivity. The institute is committed to ensuring that its research and policy analysis remain free from political or governmental influence.

Criticism and Controversies[edit]

While AEI is widely regarded as a leading think tank, it has faced criticism from some quarters, particularly from those on the political left. Critics argue that AEI’s advocacy for free-market policies can sometimes prioritize corporate interests over the welfare of vulnerable populations. Others contend that the institute’s foreign policy positions, particularly its support for military intervention, have been too aggressive.

Despite these criticisms, AEI defends its work by emphasizing its commitment to research grounded in evidence and its focus on advancing the cause of individual liberty and economic freedom.

External Links[edit]

References[edit]

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