CHAPTER 6 NOTES - INTEREST GROUPS Flashcards
What does GOTV stand for?
Get Out The Vote!
What can inspire the creation of interest groups?
Social Movements
What are Public Interest Groups?
Groups that work for the collective interest of a broad group of individuals, not just its members.
Give an example of a Public Interest Group.
American Association of Retired Persons
What are Single-issue groups?
Interest groups that focus advocacy on a single issue.
Give an example of a Single-issue group.
National Rifle Association
What is the inequality of political and economic resources?
Some groups have larger membership or are very well-funded, increasing their influence.
What are Institutional groups?
Groups that represent state & local governments to lobby for federal funds.
What are some examples of Professional associations?
American Medical Association, American Bar Association, AFL-CIO
What are the functions and activities of interest groups?
Educate voters & officeholders, draft legislation, mobilize membership, create PACs, endorse candidates, and organize protests.
How can we categorize different types of interest groups?
Economic, Ideological, Public Interest, Foreign Policy, Public Sector
What is the ‘free rider’ problem?
People who benefit from a group’s efforts without joining or paying dues.
What is grassroots lobbying?
Going directly to citizens to persuade them about an issue.
What is the role of lobbyists?
To influence governmental decisions.
What is an Amicus curiae brief?
A ‘Friend of the Court’ brief that allows interest groups to weigh in on judicial decisions.
What is the Revolving Door phenomenon?
The movement of government officials to lobbying positions after leaving office.
What is an Iron Triangle?
A relationship between a congressional committee, an interest group, and a regulatory agency.
What do lobbyists provide to candidates?
Money and information.
What is the Honest Leadership and Open Government Act, 2007?
It strengthens restrictions on gifts from lobbyists and increases disclosure requirements.
What are social movements?
Broad-based efforts to achieve major policy change.
Give an example of a social movement.
Black Lives Matter
What is civil disobedience?
Intentionally breaking a law to call attention to an injustice.
What challenges do social movements face?
Lack of leadership, resources, infrastructure, and clear policy objectives.
What is the purpose of interest groups?
To advocate for specific interests and influence policy.
