Democracy and participation

Question 1

Evaluate the extent to which pressure groups undermine democracy? key points

Answer 1

Insider groups vs wider representation

Undermine elected representatives vs increased participation

Violent tactics vs Education

Not accountable vs Hold gov accountable

Question 2

Evaluate the factors that determine the success of pressure groups in the UK- key points

Answer 2

Insider status vs countervailing forces

Resources/ expertise vs Against gov policy

Large membership vs against public opinion

Celebrity vs Alienates public

Question 3

Example of a pressure group that is successful due to resources/ expertise

Answer 3

British bankers association
reps 250 banks
Can pay lobbyists to persuade ministers to cut taxes on banks overseas

Question 4

Example of Celebrity influence in PG

Answer 4

JOANNA LUMLEY
Gurkha campaign
Brown gave equal rights

Question 5

when was VOter turnout its lowest

Answer 5

2001 59%

Question 6

When was party membership 3%

Answer 6

1983

Question 7

Decline in tory party membership

Answer 7

3 million 1950’s
2010 150,000

Question 8

When was trade union membership at all time low

Answer 8

2016 6 million

Question 9

New methods of participation

Answer 9

Eu petition 6.1 million signatures
2014 1/10 adults members of environmental groups

Question 10

Examples of referendum high turnout

Answer 10

EU 72%
Good friday 82%

Question 11

Evaluate how far the UK system of representative democracy remains in need of improvement key points

Answer 11

Feel have no impact vs More practical

Low turnout vs reduced lethargy

Self interest vs more informed

Not representative vs Prevent tyranny of majority

Question 12

Evaluate how far the UK system of representative democracy remains in need of improvement

Evidence for how representative democracy discourages engagment

Answer 12

Going to receive representative whether they vote or not
Candidates dont rep views
Powerless

2019 Hansard society report: 47% felt no influence over decision making

VOter apathy

Question 13

Example of a successful Think tank

Answer 13

Legatum institution
Helped draw up letters With Bojo lising Brexit demands

Question 14

How are think tanks not successful + example?

Answer 14

Only if ideology is in power
-eg fabian society rn

+ parties ignore as less ideologically driven

Question 15

SUccessful lobbyists

Answer 15

Successful on small scale issues
-Lobbied MPS 1999 to successfuly end ban on gay recruitment into army

Question 16

How lobbyists arent successful

Answer 16

Not on big scale issues
Best for britaiun failed to get through 2nd referendum due to Tory Get brexit done campaign