Ch 6 reading guide Flashcards
Why is special interests a negative term?
It conveys a selfish or narrow view, one that may lack credibility.
Business interest groups
Corporations range from one person to conglomerates. Large companies exercise considerable political influence
Trade interest groups
Biggest business trade association is the chamber of commerce. Tends to speak for more conservative elements of american business
Labor interest groups
Representing workers. Disagreements between unions about tactics and leadership have grown more public
Closed shop
Labor agreement under which union membership can be a condition of employment
Open shop
labor agreement under which union membership cannot be required
Professional associations
groups of individuals who share a common profession and are often organized for common political purposes related to that profession
Ideological or single interest groups
focus on issues- often a single issue. Members share a common view and desire for gov to pursue policies consistent with it
Public interest groups
Common cause campaigns for electoral reform
seek to influence policy on capital hill and in state legislatures
Foregin policy interest groups
organize or oppose foreign policy. Pressure congress and president to enact specific policies
Public sector interest groups
Many cities and states retain washington lobbyists and cities also attempt to influence congress and the president.
Why is size and resources important to political power?
an organization representing 5 million voters has more influence than one with 5,0000
Lobbyist
Employed by and acts for an organized interest group corporation to try to influence part decisions and positions in executive & legislative branches
lobbying
engaging in activities aimed at influencing public officials and the policies they enact
Revolving door
employment cycle in which individuals who work for gov agencies that regulate interest eventually end up working for interest groups or businesses with the same policy concern
