American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research
The American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research (AEI) is a prominent conservative think tank established in 1943, originally known as the American Enterprise Association. It was founded by individuals who were concerned about the increasing centralization of the American economy, especially during World War II, and sought to promote principles such as free markets and limited government. Initially focused on the economic effects of legislation, AEI's influence grew significantly in the 1950s under the leadership of William J. Baroody, attracting notable figures like economist Milton Friedman and future President Gerald R. Ford. In 1962, the organization adopted its current name, reflecting its expanded mission and vision. Over the years, AEI has contributed to policy discussions and debates, advocating for conservative perspectives on various economic and social issues. Its research and studies continue to play a role in shaping public policy and informing discussions surrounding the American economic landscape.
American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research
Identification Conservative think tank
Also Known As AEI; American Enterprise Association
Date Established in 1943
The American Enterprise Institute, the first conservative American think tank, espoused free market principles during the New Deal and World War II, when such ideals seemed outdated. At the same time, however, the think tank reflected the apprehensions of many Americans about rapid government expansion.
The American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research (AEI), originally called the American Enterprise Association, began its official life in 1943 as the first conservative think tank, promoting the ideals of the free market and limited government. Its founders, including business executive Lewis H. Brown and economic writer Henry Hazlitt, long distrusted the growing centralization of the American economy; the acceleration of this trend during World War II prompted the AEI to challenge New Deal policies. The AEI’s early studies focused on the economic consequences of proposed legislation or policies such as the Bretton Woods system. Though the think tank’s efforts were well intentioned, these modest studies had little impact during the 1940’s.
Impact
The AEI would become more influential, particularly under the directorship of William J. Baroody, beginning in 1954. The scope, quantity, and quality of its research grew, attracting luminaries such as economistMilton Friedman, future president Gerald R. Ford, and neoconservative intellectual Irving Kristol. The organization officially changed its name to the American Enterprise Institute in 1962.
Bibliography
Nash, George H. The Conservative Intellectual Movement in America Since 1945. Wilmington, Del.: Intercollegiate Studies Institute, 1996.
Wiarda, Howard J. Conservative Brain Trust: The Rise, Fall, and Rise Again of the American Enterprise Institute. Lanham, Md.: Lexington Books, 2009.