brain trusts

Advisory think tanks

Brain trusts are groups of expert advisers, especially those consulted on policy matters.

The term originated with Franklin Roosevelt's circle of academic advisers during his 1932 presidential campaign.

It now applies broadly to any team of specialists brought together to solve problems or develop strategy: The CEO assembled a brain trust to address the company's declining market share.

Sometimes used ironically for informal groups of friends offering opinions.

Related

intelligentsia · experts · thinkers · savants · strategists · council · round table · policymaking · analysts · scholars · inner circle · inner sanctum · administration · academics · pundits · policy wonks · kitchen cabinet · legislatures

Opposites
expertise and competence

brain trustsidiocracy

Governance by the witless

incompetents · know-nothings · dunces · amateurs · ignoramuses

advisory structure

brain trustslone wolves

Solitary, self-reliant individuals

independent contractors

elite vs. popular input

brain truststhe masses

Common populace collectively

the public · grassroots movements · town halls · common people · rank and file

Family

brain, trust, brains, trusts, brainy, brainier, brainiest, brainless, brainstorm

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Timeless · Everyday, not technical · Rated G