Start Page: Education

The Heritage Foundation: Founded in 1973, The Heritage Foundation is one of the most widely respected research and educational institutes in the world. As a think tank, it formulates and promotes conservative public policies based on the principles of free enterprise, limited government, individual freedom, traditional American values, and a strong national defense. The Heritage Foundation offers policies and perspectives on every major issue that’s important to conservatives. With its “A” list of scholars, the foundation “is committed to building an America where freedom, opportunity, prosperity and civil society flourish.”

The Cato Institute: The Cato Institute is one of the nation’s leading authorities on public policy and its insight is guided by a strong moral purpose and “the principles of limited government, free markets, individual liberty, and peace.” Its mission statement is clear: “The Institute will use the most effective means to originate, advocate, promote, and disseminate applicable policy proposals that create free, open, and civil societies in the United States and throughout the world.” The Institute commissions studies, books, and briefings from a variety of industry professionals. Its site, Cato.org, is an excellent place for conservatives to educate themselves and investigate political issues of every stripe.

Citizens Against Government Waste: Citizens Against Government Waste (CAGW) is a non-profit organization that acts as a “government watchdog” for the fiscally conservative. The organization has one million supporters across the nation and was founded in 1984 by the late industrialist J. Peter Grace and syndicated columnist Jack Anderson. According to their website, “CAGW’s mission is to eliminate waste, mismanagement, and inefficiency in government.”

Media Research Center: The mission of the Media Research Center is to bring balance to the news media. The aim of the Media Research Center is to expose the liberal bias that exists and influence the public’s understanding of critical issues. On October 1, 1987, a group of young determined conservatives set out to not only prove — through sound scientific research — that liberal bias in the media does exist and undermines traditional American values, but also to neutralize its impact on the American political scene through advocacy and activism.

Townhall: Townhall is a conservative news and opinion website that provides a platform for conservative voices. It was founded in 1995 and is owned by Salem Media Group. The site features news, commentary, and analysis from a conservative perspective. It also provides a platform for conservative bloggers and columnists to share their views.

These websites focus on educating the public, providing resources for action, and often specialize in one core issue (economics, abortion, gun rights). They are a strong start for building an understanding of the basics of conservatism.