Extent to which pressure groups enhance democracy.

Question 1

What are the 2 positive points for this essay?

Answer 1

Participation in politics.
Education.

Question 2

What are the 2 negative points for this essay?

Answer 2

Minority groups missed.
Biased.

Question 3

How can social media help influence government?

Answer 3

Thousands can show support for an issue/cause without leaving their home.

Question 4

What is an example of an PG using social media to influence? How many members?

Answer 4

38 Degrees, has 2.5 million members.

Question 5

What is an ‘umbrella’ group?

Answer 5

A multi-issue movement.

Question 6

Example of 38 Degrees PG e-petition success?

Answer 6

Stopped England forest privatisation.
500k+ members signed “Save Our Forests” petition.
DC dropped plans to sell UK forests.

Question 7

Why may large corporations and their influences have a huge influence?

Answer 7

Already powerful so may have power enhanced.

Question 8

What recent success does the BMA have?

Answer 8

Overturned regulations.

Question 9

Why is it argued BMA have a disproportionate influence on govt policy?

Answer 9

Have a high status/class.

Question 10

What is an example of a PG unsuccessful despite huge media attention?

Answer 10

Extinction Rebellion.

Question 11

Why has Extinction Rebellion lacked influence?

Answer 11

Radical aims are not in line with govt priorities.

Question 12

What is an example of a PG failing due to a lack of electoral power?

Answer 12

CAGE UK: to empower Muslims, against anti-terror laws.
Only 4.3% Muslim in UK so small minority, govt less likely to listen.

Question 13

How do outsider groups promote classical pluralism? How does this educate?

Answer 13

Have no special govt links to resort to public opinion campaigns.
PGs promote healthy discussion/debate which broadens views, leading to a better-informed public.

Question 14

What is the NEU? When was it formed and how many members now?

Answer 14

National Education Union for every education professional.
Formed in 2017.
Now has around 300k members.

Question 15

Are PGs biased towards own goals?

Answer 15

Yes, tend to be promoting above all others.
Can mean equally important issues can go unnoticed.

Question 16

What does it mean when 2 PGs are in direct conflict? Why is this bad for parliament?

Answer 16

Both wanting something that would benefit them but damage the other. E.g., Abortion Support Network + UK Life League.

Question 17

Parliament can’t create legislation that benefits every PG, who to pick?

Answer 17

Sometime use expertise PGs give… 2 conflicting, who to rely on?
Harms law-making process.

Question 18

How can legislation be created fairly?

Answer 18

Based on a balanced argument, without any bias.