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Study Guide: The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS): History, Mission, and Operations

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The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS): History, Mission, and Operations Study Guide

Founding and Early History (1962-1987)

CSIS was founded in 1962 and was initially affiliated with Georgetown University until 1987.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) was founded in 1962 and maintained an affiliation with Georgetown University until 1987, initially being named the Center for Strategic and International Studies of Georgetown University.

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Arleigh Burke and David Manker Abshire were the founders of the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) was indeed founded by Arleigh Burke and David Manker Abshire, officially opening its doors in 1962.

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The foundational intellectual agenda of CSIS was documented in a short pamphlet published in 1963.

Answer: False

Explanation: The foundational intellectual agenda of CSIS, developed in 1963, was documented in a substantial book titled *National Security: Political, Military and Economic Strategies in the Decade Ahead*, which exceeded one thousand pages, not a short pamphlet.

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CSIS separated from Georgetown University in 1986 due to financial disagreements.

Answer: False

Explanation: The separation from Georgetown University in 1986 was prompted by criticisms regarding CSIS's scholarly rigor and media focus, as well as recommendations from a committee report, not primarily financial disagreements.

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The initial name of CSIS was simply 'Center for Strategic and International Studies'.

Answer: False

Explanation: When CSIS was founded as an affiliate of Georgetown University, its initial name was the Center for Strategic and International Studies of Georgetown University, not simply 'Center for Strategic and International Studies'.

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The book documenting CSIS's early intellectual agenda was exceptionally long, exceeding one thousand pages.

Answer: True

Explanation: The book documenting CSIS's early intellectual agenda, *National Security: Political, Military and Economic Strategies in the Decade Ahead*, was indeed exceptionally long, exceeding one thousand pages.

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Georgetown University severed ties with CSIS primarily because CSIS was not generating enough revenue.

Answer: False

Explanation: Georgetown University severed ties with CSIS due to criticisms regarding scholarly rigor and media focus, as recommended by a committee report, not primarily due to financial reasons like lack of revenue.

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Which university was CSIS initially affiliated with from its founding until 1987?

Answer: Georgetown University

Explanation: From its founding in 1962 until 1987, CSIS was affiliated with Georgetown University, initially bearing its name as the Center for Strategic and International Studies of Georgetown University.

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Who were the key individuals credited with founding the Center for Strategic and International Studies?

Answer: Arleigh Burke and David Manker Abshire

Explanation: The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) was founded by Arleigh Burke and David Manker Abshire, officially commencing operations in 1962.

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What was the title of the book that documented CSIS's foundational intellectual agenda developed in 1963?

Answer: National Security: Political, Military and Economic Strategies in the Decade Ahead

Explanation: The foundational intellectual agenda of CSIS, established in 1963, was documented in the extensive volume titled *National Security: Political, Military and Economic Strategies in the Decade Ahead*.

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What was the primary reason cited for the separation between CSIS and Georgetown University in 1987?

Answer: Criticisms regarding CSIS's scholarly rigor and media focus.

Explanation: The separation from Georgetown University was largely due to criticisms from university professors concerning CSIS staff's foreign policy assessments and a committee report suggesting CSIS was more media-focused than scholarly.

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When CSIS was initially founded, its name reflected its affiliation with which university?

Answer: Georgetown University

Explanation: Initially, CSIS was founded as an affiliate of Georgetown University, and its name reflected this connection as the Center for Strategic and International Studies of Georgetown University.

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What was the approximate length of the book published from CSIS's January 1963 conference?

Answer: Exceeded one thousand pages

Explanation: The book documenting CSIS's foundational intellectual agenda, *National Security: Political, Military and Economic Strategies in the Decade Ahead*, was substantial in length, exceeding one thousand pages.

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Mission, Goals, and Political Stance

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is primarily focused on domestic policy issues within the United States.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is primarily focused on global political, economic, and security issues, rather than exclusively domestic policy. Its scope encompasses international relations, trade, technology, finance, energy, and geostrategy, as detailed in its mission.

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The core mission of CSIS is to find ways to diminish American influence and prosperity globally.

Answer: False

Explanation: CSIS's stated mission is to sustain American prominence and prosperity globally, positioning the United States as a force for good. Therefore, its core mission is not to diminish American influence.

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CSIS is officially described as a think tank that exclusively represents the views of the Democratic Party.

Answer: False

Explanation: CSIS is characterized as a bipartisan think tank, featuring scholars with diverse viewpoints across the political spectrum, rather than exclusively representing the Democratic Party.

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According to a 2015 statement, CSIS's primary objective is to generate academic publications.

Answer: False

Explanation: According to a 2015 statement by a senior vice president, CSIS's primary objective, or 'number one goal,' was to 'have impact on policy,' rather than solely generating academic publications.

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What is the primary function of the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)?

Answer: To conduct policy studies and strategic analyses on global issues.

Explanation: The primary function of the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is to conduct comprehensive policy studies and strategic analyses addressing global political, economic, and security issues. This involves examining international relations, trade, technology, finance, energy, and geostrategy.

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What is the overarching goal of CSIS's mission regarding the United States?

Answer: To find ways to sustain American prominence and prosperity globally.

Explanation: CSIS's mission is dedicated to finding ways to sustain American prominence and prosperity globally, positioning the United States as a positive force internationally through its strategic analyses and policy recommendations.

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How is CSIS generally characterized in terms of its political orientation?

Answer: Bipartisan, with scholars representing diverse viewpoints.

Explanation: CSIS is officially described as a bipartisan think tank, featuring scholars who represent a variety of viewpoints across the political spectrum. It is known for inviting prominent foreign policy and public service officials from both major U.S. parties and international backgrounds.

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What did H. Andrew Schwartz identify as CSIS's 'number one goal' in 2015?

Answer: To have an impact on policy.

Explanation: In 2015, a senior vice president at CSIS stated that the organization's primary objective was to 'have impact on policy,' underscoring its aim to influence real-world decision-making through its research.

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Leadership, Governance, and Affiliations

Henry Kissinger chose CSIS as his base for Washington operations after leaving his position as U.S. Secretary of State.

Answer: True

Explanation: Following his tenure as U.S. Secretary of State, Henry Kissinger selected CSIS as the base for his Washington operations, opting for it over other university offers, as Harvard did not offer him a professorship.

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CEO John Hamre defended CSIS's model by emphasizing its role in gathering stakeholders and vetting ideas.

Answer: True

Explanation: CEO John Hamre defended CSIS's model by emphasizing its methodology of convening stakeholders to vet ideas, find common ground, and highlight disagreements, rather than solely focusing on lobbying.

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CSIS partners with Syracuse University's Maxwell School to offer a master's program in international relations.

Answer: True

Explanation: CSIS collaborates with Syracuse University's Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs to offer a master's program in international relations, providing students with practical think tank experience.

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John J. Hamre has been the President and CEO of CSIS since April 2000 and previously served as U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense.

Answer: True

Explanation: John J. Hamre has served as President and CEO of CSIS since April 2000 and previously held the high-level government position of U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense.

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Henry Kissinger and William Cohen are examples of former senior government officials who have served on the CSIS Board of Trustees.

Answer: True

Explanation: Former senior government officials like Henry Kissinger and William Cohen have served on the CSIS Board of Trustees, underscoring the think tank's connections to policy-making circles.

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Thomas Pritzker is the Chairman of the Board of Trustees at CSIS and also holds executive roles at Hyatt Hotels Corporation.

Answer: True

Explanation: Thomas Pritzker serves as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees at CSIS and also holds executive roles, including Executive Chairman of Hyatt Hotels Corporation and Chairman of The Pritzker Organization.

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Affiliation with CSIS allowed former government officials like Kissinger to continue consulting and writing through the organization.

Answer: True

Explanation: The affiliation of former high-ranking officials with CSIS allowed them to engage in policy work, consulting, and writing via CSIS, leveraging their expertise and networks to significantly enhance the think tank's influence in policy discussions.

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Why did Henry Kissinger choose CSIS as his base after leaving his role as U.S. Secretary of State?

Answer: Harvard did not offer him a professorship, and he chose CSIS over other prestigious university offers.

Explanation: After leaving his position as U.S. Secretary of State, Henry Kissinger selected CSIS as his base for Washington operations because Harvard University did not offer him a professorship, and he chose CSIS over other prestigious university offers.

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How does CEO John Hamre describe CSIS's approach to addressing complex problems?

Answer: By convening stakeholders to vet ideas and find common ground.

Explanation: CEO John Hamre describes CSIS's methodology as convening stakeholders to vet ideas, identify areas of agreement, and highlight disagreements, thereby fostering collaborative solutions to complex issues.

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With which academic institution does CSIS collaborate on a master's program in international relations?

Answer: Syracuse University

Explanation: CSIS partners with the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University to offer a master's program in international relations, integrating academic study with practical think tank experience.

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What high-level government position did John J. Hamre hold before becoming President and CEO of CSIS?

Answer: U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense

Explanation: Before assuming the role of President and CEO of CSIS in April 2000, John J. Hamre served as the U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense.

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Which of these individuals, known for high-level government service, has served on the CSIS Board of Trustees?

Answer: Zbigniew Brzezinski

Explanation: Zbigniew Brzezinski, a former National Security Advisor, is among the prominent former senior government officials who have served on the CSIS Board of Trustees.

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Besides his role at CSIS, Thomas Pritzker holds significant executive positions in which major corporations?

Answer: Hyatt Hotels Corporation and The Pritzker Organization

Explanation: Thomas Pritzker, Chairman of the CSIS Board of Trustees, also serves as Executive Chairman of Hyatt Hotels Corporation and Chairman and CEO of The Pritzker Organization.

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How did the affiliation of former high-ranking officials with CSIS enhance its influence?

Answer: By allowing them to continue policy work, consulting, and writing through CSIS.

Explanation: The affiliation enabled former officials to engage in policy work, consulting, and writing via CSIS, leveraging their expertise and networks to significantly enhance the think tank's influence in policy discussions.

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Research Areas and Initiatives

The Defense-Industrial Initiatives Group at CSIS focuses on researching the defense industry for both government and corporate clients.

Answer: True

Explanation: The CSIS Defense-Industrial Initiatives Group is indeed responsible for researching the defense industry, serving both government and corporate clients by analyzing its business and strategic aspects.

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The CSIS Global Health Policy Center primarily focuses on infectious diseases like HIV and tuberculosis within the U.S.

Answer: False

Explanation: The CSIS Global Health Policy Center concentrates on U.S. involvement in addressing critical *global* health challenges like HIV and tuberculosis, examining how these intersect with U.S. national security interests, rather than focusing solely on domestic issues.

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The Project on Nuclear Issues (PONI) aims to reduce the number of nuclear experts in the policy discussion.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Project on Nuclear Issues (PONI) aims to build and sustain a network of young nuclear experts and contribute to public discussion on nuclear technology, rather than reducing the number of experts.

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PONI identifies the decline in nuclear stockpile size as the most critical challenge facing the U.S. nuclear deterrent.

Answer: False

Explanation: PONI identifies the maintenance of the 'human infrastructure' of nuclear experts as the most critical challenge for the U.S. nuclear deterrent post-Cold War, not the decline in stockpile size itself.

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CSIS was commissioned by the Department of Defense to conduct an assessment of U.S. interests in the Middle East.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Department of Defense commissioned CSIS to conduct an independent assessment of U.S. interests in the *Asia-Pacific region* as part of the 2012 National Defense Authorization Act, not the Middle East.

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What is the main purpose of the CSIS Defense-Industrial Initiatives Group?

Answer: To research the business and strategic aspects of the defense industry.

Explanation: The Defense-Industrial Initiatives Group at CSIS is dedicated to researching the defense industry, focusing on its business and strategic dimensions for both government and corporate clients.

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The CSIS Global Health Policy Center examines the intersection of global health issues and what other key area?

Answer: U.S. national security interests

Explanation: The CSIS Global Health Policy Center analyzes how critical global health challenges, such as infectious diseases, intersect with and impact U.S. national security interests.

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What is a primary goal of the Project on Nuclear Issues (PONI) hosted by CSIS?

Answer: To build and sustain a network of young nuclear experts.

Explanation: A primary goal of the Project on Nuclear Issues (PONI) is to cultivate and maintain a network of emerging nuclear experts from diverse sectors, fostering dialogue and contributing to the field's future.

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What does PONI identify as the most critical challenge for the U.S. nuclear deterrent after the Cold War?

Answer: The maintenance of the 'human infrastructure' of experts.

Explanation: PONI emphasizes that the critical challenge for sustaining the U.S. nuclear deterrent post-Cold War is maintaining the necessary 'human infrastructure,' meaning a vibrant community of nuclear experts and institutional knowledge.

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What task did the Department of Defense commission CSIS to perform under the 2012 National Defense Authorization Act?

Answer: An independent assessment of U.S. interests in the Asia-Pacific region.

Explanation: As mandated by the 2012 National Defense Authorization Act, the Department of Defense commissioned CSIS to conduct an independent assessment focused on U.S. interests within the Asia-Pacific region.

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Funding, Finances, and Operations

CSIS's new headquarters, completed in 2013, was designed to meet high standards for green building certification.

Answer: True

Explanation: CSIS's new headquarters, completed in 2013, was designed to achieve LEED Platinum Certification, signifying a high standard for green building design and operation, indicating a commitment to environmental sustainability.

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CSIS reported a significant operating deficit in fiscal year 2013, with expenses far exceeding revenue.

Answer: False

Explanation: In fiscal year 2013, CSIS reported operating revenue of $32.3 million and expenses of $32.2 million, indicating a nearly balanced budget, not a significant operating deficit.

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In fiscal year 2013, corporate sources provided the largest share of CSIS's operating revenue.

Answer: True

Explanation: In fiscal year 2013, corporate sources accounted for 32% of CSIS's operating revenue, which was the largest single share compared to foundations, government, individuals, and endowment income.

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By September 2014, the United Arab Emirates had donated over $1 million to CSIS, as reported by The New York Times.

Answer: True

Explanation: *The New York Times* reported by September 2014 that the United Arab Emirates had contributed over $1 million to CSIS, highlighting significant foreign government contributions.

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Defense contractors are a minor source of funding for CSIS and are not listed among significant donors.

Answer: False

Explanation: Defense contractors are listed as a major source of funding for CSIS, with prominent examples including Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and Boeing, indicating they are not a minor source.

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A report in *Fairness & Accuracy in Reporting* described CSIS as heavily funded by arms dealers and consistently pro-war.

Answer: True

Explanation: A report in *Fairness & Accuracy in Reporting* assessed CSIS as being 'heavily funded by the US government, arms dealers and oil companies, [and] is a consistently pro-war think tank,' aligning with the statement.

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LEED Platinum Certification for CSIS's headquarters signifies a low standard of environmental sustainability.

Answer: False

Explanation: LEED Platinum Certification signifies a *high* standard of environmental sustainability and energy efficiency in building design and operation, not a low standard.

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CSIS had 354 employees and 274 volunteers in the year 2014.

Answer: True

Explanation: In 2014, CSIS reported having 354 employees and 274 volunteers, providing a snapshot of its human resources at that time.

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What distinction does CSIS's new headquarters building, completed in 2013, aim to achieve?

Answer: LEED Platinum Certification for green building standards.

Explanation: The new CSIS headquarters, completed in 2013, was designed to achieve LEED Platinum Certification, signifying a high standard for environmental sustainability and energy efficiency in its construction and operation.

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In fiscal year 2013, CSIS's operating revenue was approximately $32.3 million, and its operating expenses were nearly equal at $32.2 million. This indicates:

Answer: A nearly balanced budget.

Explanation: With operating revenue closely matching operating expenses ($32.3 million vs. $32.2 million) in fiscal year 2013, CSIS's financial status for that period was characterized as a nearly balanced budget.

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Which category provided the largest single source of CSIS's operating revenue in fiscal year 2013?

Answer: Corporate sources

Explanation: In fiscal year 2013, corporate sources constituted the largest single share of CSIS's operating revenue, accounting for 32% of the total.

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According to *The New York Times*, which foreign nation had donated over $1 million to CSIS by September 2014?

Answer: United Arab Emirates

Explanation: *The New York Times* reported that by September 2014, the United Arab Emirates had contributed over $1 million to CSIS, highlighting significant foreign government financial support.

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Which of the following is listed as a major defense contractor that significantly funds CSIS?

Answer: Lockheed Martin

Explanation: Lockheed Martin is identified as one of the major defense contractors that provides significant funding to CSIS, alongside other industry leaders like Northrop Grumman and Boeing.

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What critical assessment of CSIS's funding and stance was published in *Fairness & Accuracy in Reporting*?

Answer: CSIS is heavily funded by arms dealers and is consistently pro-war.

Explanation: *Fairness & Accuracy in Reporting* published an assessment characterizing CSIS as heavily funded by entities including arms dealers and consistently advocating a pro-war stance.

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In 2014, what was the total number of employees and volunteers at CSIS?

Answer: 354 employees and 274 volunteers

Explanation: In 2014, CSIS maintained a significant operational capacity with 354 employees and 274 volunteers contributing to its research and activities.

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Media Presence and Global Influence

In 2024, CSIS was recognized as a leading research institution within Russia.

Answer: False

Explanation: In 2024, CSIS was designated as an 'undesirable organization' within Russia, indicating a negative rather than positive recognition by the Russian government.

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Former National Security Advisor John Bolton criticized U.S. policy towards North Korea in a speech at CSIS in September 2019.

Answer: True

Explanation: Former National Security Advisor John Bolton delivered a significant speech at CSIS in September 2019, during which he expressed strong criticism of U.S. policy toward North Korea.

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Hillary Clinton addressed cybersecurity threats in her 2012 keynote address at CSIS.

Answer: False

Explanation: In 2012, Hillary Clinton's keynote address at CSIS focused on 'U.S. Strategic Engagement with North Africa,' specifically addressing the security of embassies, not cybersecurity threats.

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*Foreign Affairs* is the flagship journal published by CSIS.

Answer: False

Explanation: *The Washington Quarterly* is identified as CSIS's flagship journal of international affairs, not *Foreign Affairs*.

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CSIS scholars frequently publish their work in major newspapers like The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal.

Answer: True

Explanation: CSIS scholars frequently publish their work in major newspapers such as *The New York Times* and *The Wall Street Journal*, as well as other prominent outlets, demonstrating their reach in public discourse.

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CSIS experts are primarily featured in print media and rarely appear in electronic or broadcast media.

Answer: False

Explanation: CSIS experts are frequently featured not only in print media but also in newswires, online media, and broadcast programs, indicating a broad media presence beyond just print.

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National Security Advisor Tom Donilon indicated that CSIS research was rarely consulted during the Obama administration.

Answer: False

Explanation: National Security Advisor Tom Donilon stated that CSIS products were frequently included in his reading materials, noting their presence 'almost every week,' indicating regular consultation, not rare usage.

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CSIS played a role in shaping the Obama administration's policies on cyberwarfare, as acknowledged by President Obama.

Answer: True

Explanation: CSIS played a role in shaping the Obama administration's cyberwarfare policies, with President Obama specifically thanking the CSIS bipartisan Commission on Cybersecurity for its contributions.

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What designation did Russia impose on CSIS in 2024?

Answer: Undesirable Organization

Explanation: In 2024, the Russian government designated the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) as an 'undesirable organization,' implying its activities were deemed a threat to national security.

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Who delivered a notable speech at CSIS in September 2019, criticizing U.S. policy toward North Korea?

Answer: John Bolton

Explanation: Former National Security Advisor John Bolton delivered a significant speech at CSIS in September 2019, during which he voiced strong criticisms regarding U.S. policy concerning North Korea.

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In 2012, Hillary Clinton's keynote address at CSIS focused on which region and related security concerns?

Answer: North Africa and embassy security

Explanation: In her 2012 keynote address at CSIS, then-Secretary of State Hillary Clinton discussed 'U.S. Strategic Engagement with North Africa' and addressed security concerns, particularly regarding embassies.

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Which publication is identified as CSIS's flagship journal of international affairs?

Answer: The Washington Quarterly

Explanation: *The Washington Quarterly* is identified as CSIS's flagship journal, serving as a primary platform for disseminating its research and analysis on global strategic changes and their policy implications.

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CSIS experts are frequently cited in various media outlets. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a platform where they are featured?

Answer: The Onion (satirical publication)

Explanation: While CSIS experts are frequently cited in newswires, broadcast programs like NPR and Charlie Rose, and major newspapers, *The Onion* (a satirical publication) is not mentioned as a platform for their appearances.

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How did National Security Advisor Tom Donilon describe the frequency of CSIS products appearing in his reading materials?

Answer: Almost every week.

Explanation: National Security Advisor Tom Donilon indicated that CSIS products were a regular feature in his reading materials, noting their presence 'almost every week,' signifying their frequent consultation during the Obama administration.

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Historical Evolution and Milestones

Following the Cold War, CSIS narrowed its research focus exclusively to traditional military security concerns.

Answer: False

Explanation: Following the Cold War, CSIS expanded its research focus beyond traditional military security to include international economics, trade agreements, global health, and climate change, reflecting a broader understanding of national security.

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In the 1990s, CSIS expanded its research to include global health and climate change alongside economic issues.

Answer: True

Explanation: In the 1990s, CSIS expanded its research focus to include international economics, global health, and the environmental impacts of climate change, alongside traditional security concerns.

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Which of the following areas was NOT significantly expanded in CSIS's research focus during the 1990s?

Answer: Classical military history and strategy

Explanation: In the 1990s, CSIS expanded its research into international economics, global health, and climate change. Classical military history and strategy were not areas of significant expansion during this period.

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General Information and Identification

The 'Authority control' section in Wikipedia articles links to databases for managing article content.

Answer: False

Explanation: The 'Authority control' section in Wikipedia articles links to standardized databases for identifying entities and connecting related information, rather than managing article content itself.

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The official website for the Center for Strategic and International Studies is www.csis.org.

Answer: True

Explanation: The official website address for the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is indeed www.csis.org, serving as its primary online portal.

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