Research and Analysis

Our ability successfully to look forward in the conduct of our foreign relations rests, in large part, upon how we develop and use our resources for research and analysis. At present, these are broadly diffused in both the public and private sectors; a number of stresses and strains indicate that they are not as effectively deployed and utilized as they could be. Improvements are possible on many fronts. Attention here is on the information, research, and analysis needs of the United States government, with particular attention to the Department of State. The Department's Bureau of Intelligence and Research (INR) occupies a pivotal position. A substantial increase in its capabilities would have many desirable consequences. Among these are: enrichment of INR's own influential analytical research efforts; stimulation and support of the academic search for more coherent and socially relevant knowledge; assurance that the Department will derive the maximum analytical benefit from a modern information-handling system; expanded opportunities to train Foreign Service officers in analytical methods; more balanced and efficacious programs of government contract and grant support for foreign affairs research; and more systematic policy review and development in support of planning. Cost to the American public is estimated at five cents per person per year.