Proofreader's query about the phrasing of something from the Hoover Institution got me to wondering when and how the term, "Think Tank" came about. I originally thought it meant a group of scientists who were focused on resolving a specific problem, but it now seems that they are only political or business entities designed to promote a specific policy or ideology. Is this how others view the term? If so, shouldn't they be called "Group-think Tanks?"

Or Doublethink tanks

"Think tank," along with "brainstorming," is one of my least favorite phrases. This Wikipedia site gives a little history. I thought it odd at the top when it said there were 5,465 think tanks worldwide in 2009, with 1,777 based in the U.S. Clearly their definition is much more specific than what I've seen. Think tanks in my profession are a dime a dozen, and I've been part of several. I am certain none of them were part of the 1,777 cited in Wikipedia!