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The University of Massachusetts Amherst

Political Science Research Guide

Use this guide to find information and research on topics in the field of political science

What Are Think Tanks?

Think tank is a phrase used to describe organizations (usually non-profit) which conduct public policy research and analysis.

They often publish papers based on their research and make them available for free on their web sites.

Some think tanks are non-partison, but others advocate particular political positions. Be sure to take this into consideration when evaluating their material.

Right, Left, Center?

The Think Tank Spectrum in Extra!, a publication of FAIR (Fairness and Accuracy in Reporting) compiled a list categorizing some of the most frequently cited think tanks as conservative, progressive, centrist, etc.