Groups.Interests Flashcards
What is an interest group?
an organized group of individuals or organizations that makes policy-related appeals to government
How do interest groups enhance democracy?
By representing individuals , encouraging political participation, and educating the public
Do interest groups represent the private or public interests?
private interests
How did Madison answer to interest groups?
He said the answer was diversity
What is pluralism?
the theory that all interests are and should be free to compete for influence in the government
Where is there a “pull” from? Why?
government; to collect information on how governmental decisions will impact various constituencies
Where does a “push” come from? Why?
individuals and groups; to gain some benefit
What is economic interest?
one of the main purposes for which indivuduals form groups
What are some examples of economic interests?
American Farm Bureau Federation, AFL-CIO (labor unions), and the American Medical Association
What are the 3 primary needs of groups?
Money, leadership, and members
Why do groups need money?
to sustain the organization and to fund the group’s activities
What are some examples of a group’s activities?
lobbying, voter education, etc.
What makes groups more powerful?
more members
What makes groups more successful?
organization and discipline
Members of groups are more likely to be…?
people with higher incomes and higher levels of education
What are selective benefits?
benefits provided only to group members to entice members to join and contribute
When will selective benefits not organize a group?
If there is no leadership to do the work
Who are political entrepreneurs?
leaders who accrue their own benefits in return for doing the work of organizing
How do insider strategies influence policy?
by directly influencing decision makers
pursuing advocacy through the courts
How do outsider strategies influence policy?
by educating the public
campaigning and contributing to candidates
How do interest groups try to pressure politicians?
By mobilizing public opinion
What are some examples of mobilizing public opinion?
advertising campaigns, protests, and grassroots lobbying efforts – building lists of supporters and urging them to pressure officials
How do interest groups seek to influence policy through the courts?
By bringing suits directly on behalf of their group
Financing suits brought by others
Filing amicus curiae briefs
What is lobbying?
an attempt by a group to influence the policy process through persuasion of government officials
