Some Studies Of Transnational Think Tank Networks' Roles In The Development Of The G20 Summit

This study focuses on the emergence of transnational think tank networks,and applies the theoretical perspective of “boundary organizations” to the observation and explaination of their roles in the global governance.As to how transnational think tank networks can smoothly play “boundary organizations” in international relations,this study proposes a research hypothesis based on theoretical inferences as,if a transnational think tank networks includes relevant scientists and some policy decision makers,and the two groups of people are able to conduct free,open,frank,and equitable discussions based on rules in order to complete knowledge translation and knowledge integration,then this transnational think tank network can undoubtedly play the role of "boundary organizations" in international relations,with its output of policy knowledge of legitimacy,authority and feasibility.Then,this study will testify this research hypothesis on the basis of three cases,i.e.,three international think tank networks involving into the development of the G20 Summit,respectively the birth of the G20 Summit,the policy effectiveness evaluation mechanism of the G20 summit,the G20 summit's agenda settings.With the methods of case studies,text interpretation,interviews and social network analysis,the research further explores and identifies the circumstances under which a transnational think tank network should to act as a "boundary organization" to inform the policy making circles.In terms of theoretical significance,the theoretical perspective of "boundary organizations" applied in this study clarifies the complex interactive relationship between science and politics.In many cases,it is impossible to keep power politics from the process of policy knowledge productions.At the same time,it is also recognized that it is impossible to eliminate all uncertainties in international public policy decisions.Under such circumstances,scientists and politicians should continue to keep talks with each other,enhance their mutual trust and continue to work together to seek proper or effective solutions to the alreadly existed or emerging problems in the future.In terms of practical significance,this study provides some valuable lessons for the construction of a think tank system with Chinese characteristics,especially how Chinese scientists,think tank experts and scholars can participate in the global governance and get China's voice heard at international agreements making process.At the same time,it intends to provide a panoramic view of think tanks for Chinese think tank managers as to how to manage and operate think tanks effectively and efficiently in a globalized world.