The American Enterprise Institute (AEI) was founded in 1938 for the purpose of "bringing about a greater public knowledge and understanding of the social and economic advantages accruing to the American people through the maintenance of the system of free, competitive enterprise." A public policy think tank based in Washington, D.C., AEI scholars conduct original research that advocates for free enterprise and focuses on the world economy, U.S. foreign policy and international security, and domestic political and social issues. Notable past AEI scholars and affiliates include President Gerald Ford, Robert Bork, Ronald Coase, Newt Gingrich, Milton Friedman, Roscoe Pound, and Antonin Scalia. Today, AEI scholars produce a variety of works, including books, working papers, journal publications and op-eds, video content for their YouTube channel, and several podcast series.
