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4. Policy Analysis: An Introduction

Exercises

1. A Multitude of Think Tanks
   
   There are numerous think tanks in the United States (and around the world) that conduct studies and analyses on a broad range of problems, alternatives, and policies. This exercise gives you a sense of just how many of these groups there are and what they do.



• Go to the University of Michigan Document Center to see a list of links to think tank sites. Select three think tanks by either scrolling down the "Individual Think Tanks" list or by doing a search under the "Comprehensive Listings." Which organizations did you choose? What are their missions? What are one or two current issues on which each is working? Would you classify the studies and analyses of each organization as scientific, professional, or political? Why did you classify them in this way?

2. Deciphering Think Tank Information
   
   The focus of their studies and the individual missions of different types of think tanks may affect the kinds of conclusions they draw. One text box in chapter 4 showed the differences between the Heritage Foundation and the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities in regard to welfare reform. In this exercise you will compare the perspectives of the Cato Institute and Politic for Change on the issue of abortion.
   
   Go to each of these sites and conduct a key word search for "abortion." Comment on the following:



• What would you say are the ideological leanings of these organizations?





• What is each organization’s perspective on abortion rights?





For a different point of view on the issue, visit the Planned Parenthood and the National Right to Life Committee sites. What differences do you see in the discussion of abortion for these two organizations compared to those found on the Cato Institute and Politics for Change sites?