The Heritage Foundation is a conservative [[think tank]] based in Washington, D.C., United States. It was established in 1973 by a group of individuals, including [[Paul Weyrich]], Edwin Feulner, and [[Joseph Coors]], with the aim of promoting [conservative](https://doctorparadox.net/mental-self-defense/the-conservative-mind/) public policies based on free enterprise, limited government, individual freedom, traditional American values (see: [Strict Father Morality](https://doctorparadox.net/dictionaries/authoritarianism/strict-father-morality/)), and a strong national defense. Over the years, the Heritage Foundation has played an influential role in shaping American politics and public policy. It conducts research and analysis on a wide range of policy issues, such as economics, social policy, national security, and foreign affairs. The foundation's work is aimed at providing policy recommendations, promoting conservative ideas, and influencing decision-makers in the U.S. government. Visit the Heritage Foundation connections mind map:[![[Google Chrome - Koup Klux Klan • Main Map - Annotated View • Kumu 2024-01-31 at 11.27.59 PM.png]]](<https://kumu.io/doctorparadox/koup-klux-klan#main-map/annotated-view/heritage-foundation?focus=1>) ## Key initiatives of the Heritage Foundation 1. **Mandate for Leadership**: In 1981, the foundation published a series of policy recommendations called "Mandate for Leadership," which heavily influenced the Reagan administration's policy agenda. Many of the proposals were later implemented by the administration. 2. **Influencing Supreme Court nominations**: The Heritage Foundation has been active in suggesting and endorsing conservative candidates for [[The Supreme Court]], helping to shape the court's ideological balance. 3. **Index of Economic Freedom**: The foundation, in partnership with The Wall Street Journal, publishes an annual "Index of Economic Freedom," which ranks countries based on their levels of economic freedom. This influential index is used by policymakers, academics, and business leaders around the world. 4. **The Daily Signal**: The Heritage Foundation operates a multimedia news organization called The Daily Signal, which provides news, analysis, and commentary on current events and policy issues from a conservative perspective. While the Heritage Foundation has been influential in shaping conservative policy, it has also been criticized by some for its close ties to corporate interests and for promoting an ideological agenda. As one of the most prominent and powerful conservative think tanks in the United States, the group and its activities deserve our ongoing scrutiny.