Functions of Pressure Groups Flashcards
How pressure groups have an educative function?
They provide information and education to the general public, making them aware of political events and facts which may not be high on the government’s agenda.
How does Amnesty International educate?
It produces an annual report on human rights violations across the world.
What is an argument against pressure groups having an educative function?
They will often present inaccurate or biased information to argue their case.
How do pressure groups have a representative function?
They speak up for sections of society who are not represented in the current electoral system
How do pressure groups encourage political participation?
They allow people to campaign on a single issue without having to commit to a political ideology.
How are pressure groups involved in policy formation?
They develop, create and advise policies which the government can then use.
How is a pressure groups involved in policy implementation?
Shelter helps to implement government policy in providing shelter for the homeless such as the Mayor of London’s “No Second Night On The Streets” campaign.
Give two examples of pressure groups who scrutinise the government and how they do it.
- Greenpeace regularly emails its members on government progress on climate change.
- The WWF published a report in 2015 about the Conservative Party’s record on investing in renewable energy.
