Presssure Groups

Question 1

What is a pressure group?

Answer 1

An organisation that seeks to influence decision-making in relation to particular issues e.g British Medical Association

Question 2

What is an insider group?

Answer 2

Have little to no contact with decision-makers, often due to disagreement with government e. Amnesty International

Question 3

What is a promotional group?

Answer 3

A promotional pressure group that represents or promotes a specific cause.

Question 4

What is a sectional group?

Answer 4

A group that aims to protect the interest of its members.

Question 5

Do pressure groups enhance democracy? - YES

Answer 5

• represent various demands + interests
• educates + informs the electorate
• government’s made aware of how the public feel about certain issues

Question 6

Do pressure groups enhance democracy? - NO

Answer 6

• may take illegal + undemocratic direct action
• insider PGs can hold too much influence over government ministers
• some demonstrations can turn violent

Question 7

What is lobbying?

Answer 7

Attempting or seeking to influence government ministers/parliament.

Question 8

What is pluralism?

Answer 8

The idea that power is dispersed in society, no one has all the power.

Question 9

Methods used by pressure groups:

Answer 9

Direct action e.g strikes
Petitions
Publicity stunts
Celebrity Endorsement