Yesterday, I was working downtown in DC on a project for my business. During a quick break for lunch, my client suggested the cafeteria across the street. . . in the Brookings Institution Building.
I had a nice lunch. Spotted Peter Beinart there. He didn't see me. Why would he? I was just another anonymous suit, and we've never met. But the whole thing got me thinking. . .
Brookings is a major DC think tank, and it is often thought of as a leftish counterbalance to places like the American Enterprise Instite. Around here, we might not see it that way, but why not do an article on Brookings, politics, policy, think tanks and new media (like this site)?
I'll write it, but I want your help (more on the flip).
Here's the idea.
I'll see if I can set up an interview with someone at Brookings. I'll try to get their perspective, their history, their mission, and what they see as the role of research by communities like this, if there is any such role.
I'll try to find out to what extent research can remain independent from the needs/desired outcomes of funding sources and corporate sponsors, etc. You know, ask them about it, from their point of view.
I may have my ideas, but why not do some actual research and reporting, right? Maybe learn something? Or not? Who knows?
Anyway, I'm inviting people here to offer me questions they'd like me to ask for whatever spokesperson I get to talk to me.
What would you like to know?