2. What are the different ways of categorising pressure groups Flashcards
what are Sectional Groups (interest groups)
Sectional Groups (interest groups):
- Aim to protect the interests of their members
- Membership is normally exclusive – criteria for qualifying
- E.g. only qualified or trainee teachers can join the National Union of Teachers
examples of sectional groups
Examples of Sectional Groups :
- National Farmers’ Union
- British Medical Association
- National Union of Teachers
- Confederation of British Industry
what are Cause Groups (Promotional Groups)
Cause Groups (Promotional Groups):
- Aim to promote issues and policies that do not exclusively benefit the group’s members
- E.g. The Child Poverty Action Group campaigns on behalf of children and those in poverty
examples of Cause Groups
Examples of Cause Groups :
- Greenpeace
- Oxfam
- Royal Society for the Protection of Birds
- Child Poverty Action Group
What is the problem with categorising pressure groups by their aims?
Some groups function as both sectional and cause groups (e.g. BMA and NUT)
what are Insider Groups
Insider Groups:
- Groups that regularly consult with the government
- Able to work effectively ‘inside’ Parliamentary procedures
- E.g. contacting and meeting with MPs, or appearing before Select Committees etc.
what are Outsider Groups
Outsider Groups:
- Do not have regular contact with the government, or much direct influence on policy making in Parliament
- Attempt to reach their goals more by influencing the public and capturing media attention – often through publicity stunts
examples of insider and outsider groups
Child Poverty Action Group and the NUT both don’t have a fixed status, they can be either insider or outsider groups and change over time particularly with a change of government
What are the three different types of insider groups?
- Core Insiders
- Specialist Insiders
- Peripheral Insiders
describe ‘Core Insiders’
Core Insiders – work closely and regularly with the government across a broad range of issues
describe ‘Specialist Insiders’
Specialist Insiders – consulted on particular issues where specialism is required
describe ‘Peripheral Insiders’
Peripheral Insiders – participate as insiders but with very little influence
What are the three different types of outsider groups?
- Ideological Outsiders
- Outsiders By Necessity
- Potential Insiders
describe ‘Ideological Outsiders’
Ideological Outsiders – Differences in ideological views make it impossible to work with the government
describe ‘Outsiders By Necessity’
Outsiders By Necessity – lack the skills and knowledge to become an insider
describe ‘Potential Insiders’
Potential Insiders – groups lacking the necessary support and experience
