New Think Tanks and the Obama Administration’s Asia-Pacific Policy Making： The Case of the Center for a New American Security

    Abstract: In America’s foreign policy decision making, think tanks play an extraordinary role in terms of new policy innovation, leadership development, providing platforms for policy debates and educating and guiding public opinion. The recently established Center for a New American Security has tremendous influence on the foreign policy of the Obama Administration. Its Asia policy research emphasizes a pragmatic approach, and focuses on restoring “participation” of America in Asia Affairs, while advocating for the enhancement and upgrading of American alliances in Asia. It has also pushed the United States to participate enthusiastically in the region’s multi-lateral institutions. Its policy recommendations have a profound impact on contemporary American policy making with respect to Asia.