pressure groups Flashcards
pluralism
a theory which suggests that power is not just in the hands of the electorate, but is distributed amongst different groups in society
what does the first amendment allow
freedom of expression-greater role for pressure groups
what do pressure groups do
support and influence politicians to be in line with their beliefs
PG for abortion
planned parenthood
what do planned parenthood do
non profit organisation
set up health clinics and provide safe access to abortions
what do the American family association do
oppose pro choice/abortion
conservative christian organisation
elitism
a theory which suggests power rests in the hands of a small group who have gained power through wealth or intellectual superiority
example of an elitist
koch brothers
what do the koch brothers stand for
repealing social security
abolish medicare
repeal NMW laws
oppose govt welfare projects
4 types of pressure groups
primarily business/trade groups
labour unions
professional groups
intergovernmental groups
what are professional pressure groups
group rights membership
American Medical Association, Bar Association e.t.c
focus on proffesions
intergovernmental groups
lobby one level of government on behalf of another
public interest membership groups
think tanks
e.g. National Governers Conference
Causal pressure groups
promotional lobbyists
typically seek policy outcomes that would not benefit themselves but are morally right
altruistic in nature
e.g NFU
sectional pressure groups
they are focused on self interest - benefits their own memberships
e.g. NRA
EXAMPLES of single issue groups
NRA, MADD
Common individuals PG examples
NAACP, AARP
5 FUNCTIONS of PGs
represent
participation
educate
agenda building
programme monitoring
representation function
link the public and the politicians
allow ordinary citizens to voice their opinions
participation function
Americans want more participation in the democratic proces
more involved in decision making
education function
educate public opinion
warn people of possible dangers if issues are not adressed
agenda building function
achieve a common interest
bringing diff specs of society which may be divided together
monitoring function
scrutinise and hold govt to account
-Bipartinsa Campaign Act 2002 Campaign finance institute commission studies by scholars on the laws on the funding of campaigns
-NRA and ACLU may bring cases to the federal courts - ask judicial branch to check the effects of legislation
3 reasons for joining PGs
material benefits
purposive benefits
solidarity benefits
material benefits of joining PGs
gaining information
service benefits - US conference of city majors offer help to mayors when visiting DC to lobby govt personnel
changes in policy
