Think Tanks in UK Politics Flashcards
Pressure groups and other influences -> Democracy and Participation -> UK Politics
What are think tanks, and what is their purpose?
Think tanks are groups of experts from various backgrounds investigating specific topics to propose solutions to complex economic, social, or political issues.
Provide an example of a think tank influencing political party policies.
The Conservative Party’s shift to free-market policies in the 1970s was influenced by think tanks like the Centre for Policy Studies and the Adam Smith Institute.
What is the role of think tanks in UK politics?
- Provide an alternative source of ideas to the civil service.
- Offer specialized expertise and more time for research than political parties.
- Influence government policy through research and recommendations.
How did the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) influence UK government policy?
Founded by Iain Duncan Smith in 2004 to address issues in disadvantaged communities, it influenced the introduction of Universal Credit under the coalition government (2010-2015) to reduce dependence on welfare benefits.
What are the advantages of think tanks?
- Policy Innovation: Bring fresh ideas to government, especially in neglected areas.
- Independent Expertise: Conduct focused research for comprehensive policy recommendations.
- Career Development: Serve as a platform for young professionals aspiring to political roles
What are the criticisms of think tanks?
- Academic Rigour: Research is often seen as less rigorous than universities’.
- Practical Limitations: Some proposals are politically infeasible and ignored.
- Partisanship: Many are ideologically driven, influencing objectivity.
- Careerism: Often staffed by ambitious individuals using think tanks as a stepping stone to politics.
Provide an example of careerism in think tanks.
David Miliband’s trajectory from the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) to adviser to Tony Blair and eventually a senior minister
Name two right-wing think tanks and their focus areas.
- Centre for Policy Studies (CPS): Promotes free-market policies.
- Adam Smith Institute (ASI): Advocates for deregulation and privatization.
Name two left-wing think tanks and their focus areas.
- Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR): Focuses on social justice and progressive policies.
- Fabian Society: Supports democratic socialism and equality.
Name two neutral or independent think tanks and their focus areas.
- Chatham House: Specializes in international affairs and global issues.
- Resolution Foundation: Focuses on living standards and economic inequality.
How do think tanks contribute to pluralist democracy?
By providing diverse viewpoints and policy ideas, think tanks enhance the pluralist model of democracy.
How does elite theory critique think tanks?
Critics argue think tanks reinforce elite influence in politics, as their proximity to political leaders and funding sources limits accessibility to the wider public.
Give examples of think tanks influencing political ideologies or policies.
- Thatcherism: Influenced by right-wing think tanks advocating for privatization and deregulation.
- New Labour: IPPR’s research influenced Tony Blair’s Third Way policies, blending market efficiency with social justice.
What are some current developments related to think tanks?
- Increased scrutiny of funding sources for transparency and accountability.
- Expansion into areas like climate change, digital policy, and AI governance.
What is policy incubation?
The process of developing and refining policy ideas within think tanks before they are adopted by political parties or government.
