Chapter 6

Question 1

A voluntary organization that strives to influence public policy

Answer 1

Interest group

-A.k.a. pressure group, a special interest groups, or a lobby

Question 2

How are interest groups different from a political party?

Answer 2

Political parties seek to win elections and operate government. Interest groups only seek to influence public policy. Interest groups are private organizations that focus on very specific issues, while political parties are public organizations that have views on a wide range of issues.

Question 3

What are the three major types of interest groups?

Answer 3

• economic groups (seek financial advantage of their members)
• non-economic groups (seek betterment of society as a whole or the reform of the political, social, or economic system in ways that do not directly affect their members pocketbooks)
• mixed groups (pursue social goals that has economic affects) ex: Texas State teachers association

Question 4

Which interest groups are the most powerful in Texas?

Answer 4

Business and professional groups

Question 5

How do interest groups influence the executive branch?

Answer 5

• implementation

- desertion

Question 6

Sway elected officials by affecting public opinion

Answer 6

Electioneering

Question 7

The ability to “ get in the door” to sit down and talk to public officials. Campaign contributions are often used to gain access.

Answer 7

Access

Question 8

Special interest groups orchestrating demonstrations to give the impression of widespread and spontaneous public support

Answer 8

Astroturf

Question 9

Wish interest do interest groups in Texas spend the most on lobbying?

Answer 9

Energy and natural resources

Question 10

What are the positives of interest groups?

Answer 10

• increase his political participation and mobilization of voters
• Educate their members about public policies and issues they are concerned about

Question 11

What are the negatives of interest groups?

Answer 11

• too many that they may not be affective
• narrow interest
• Secret communications with officials
• corruption of intimidation of public officials
• Wealthier interest groups tend to have more influence

Question 12

How does the Texas ethics commission regulate lobbying?

Answer 12

They have the power to enforce the lobby and campaign finance reporting laws in Texas