For decades, think tanks and other knowledge institutions occupied a relatively well-defined niche in liberal democracies. Their role was to translate academic research into policy-relevant analysis, provide recommendations to decision-makers and convene networks of experts, officials and stakeholders. They acted as bridges between knowledge and power.
That model no longer completely reflects reality.
Much more than in the past, policy debates are shaped not only by evidence and expertise but also by narratives, identity politics, mis-/disinformation and ideological mobilisation. As a result, the functions of knowledge institutions – including think tanks – have expanded significantly.
They now engage in fact-checking and debunking mis-/disinformation. They provide a challenge function to policy-making structures, speaking uncomfortable truths to and with power. They help build consensus and identify landing zones between polarised positions. Increasingly, they…
