advocacy groups Flashcards
advocacy group
An organization that pursues the common interests of groups of people, particularly by trying to influence the development, adoption, and implementation of public policies.
Non-governmental organization
A private organization that often delivers public services but is independent of government
pluralist system
A political system in which many groups representing a wide variety of interests are able to influence the decisions of government. Government tries to satisfy as many groups as possible, and no group has a dominant influence on government
astroturfing
Where corporations or wealthy individuals create advocacy groups with a fake “grassroots façade” to pursue their goals
institutionalism
A theory that holds that the state ultimately has complete control over how group interests impact public policy decisions.
institutionalized advocacy group
A group that has developed a formal organization, including such features as a well-established membership base, paid professional staff, permanent offices, and the capability to keep its members and the public aware of its views and activities.
self-interest group
An interest group whose primary objective is to promote the interests of the group and its members and to seek benefits that are primarily exclusively for its members.
public interest group
A group that seeks to achieve goals that the group views as being for the good of the community as a whole, rather than providing specific benefits for its members.
selective incentive
A particular benefit that is made available to members of an advocacy group but which may not be available to the public as a whole.
inside strategies
Strategies in which advocacy group leaders develop close contacts with key decision makers in government and the public service to influence public policies.
outside strategies
Strategies in which advocacy group leaders appeal to the public for support and mobilize members to place pressure on decision makers concerning public policies.
lobbying
An effort to persuade those involved in making and implementing public policies to adopt and implement policies or decisions favoured by an individual, business, or group, particularly through direct personal contact.
protest movement
A network of groups and individuals who seek major social and political change, particularly by acting outside of established political institutions.
segregation
The legal separation of Blacks and whites, particularly in the southern United States.
resources mobilization theory
Theory which argues that success of social movements depends on resources, such as time, money and skills, and the ability to use them.
