Pressure Groups

Question 1

Pluralism

Answer 1

Power is distributed among groups representing a range of interests

Question 2

Iron Triangle Syndrome?

Answer 2

‘Cosy Triangles’ - relationships between:

Pressure Group + Congress Committee + Executive Department

• affectively achieve policy outcomes & self reinforcing

Question 3

Promotional Groups

Answer 3

Casual Groups = campaign for a particular case/issue

Question 4

Interest Groups

Answer 4

Sectional Groups = represent their group within society e.g. Trade Unions

Question 5

3 main Methods used to gain influence

Answer 5

Elections & Endorsements, Lobbying, Grassroots activities

Question 6

Pressure Groups & Environmental Protection

Answer 6

Sierra Club formed as a response to industrialisation - pushes for stricter laws regarding environmental protection

Question 7

Example of Single Issue Groups?

Answer 7

National Rifle Association

Question 8

Function of Pressure Group? (PEAR)

Answer 8

Participation
Education
Agenda Building
Representation

Question 9

Elections & Endorsements

Answer 9

PG’s support or oppose candidates depending on their attitude towards their cause - help raise money & endorse candidates that support

Question 10

Lobbying

Answer 10

act as a source, providing information for legislators who will appear knowledgable

Question 11

Organising Grass-roots activities

Answer 11

activities to encourage people at local levels to get involved

Question 12

Pressure Groups & Abortion Rights

Answer 12

ProChoice & ProLife - split groups following Roe v. Wade 1973

Question 13

Pressure Groups & Gun Control

Answer 13

National Rifle Association 1871 has over 3m members, upholding strictest interpretation of the 2nd amendment

Question 14

3 ways Pressure Groups impact Congress

Answer 14

Lobby Congressional Committees who amend legislation = access point to legislative process

Encourage Citizens

Endorse supportive candidates through fundraising & advertising.

Question 15

How do Pressure Groups impact the Executive?

Answer 15

Keeps strong ties with relevant federal departments e.g. Education, Environment

Question 16

How do Pressure Groups impact the Judiciary? (2)

Answer 16

support or appose nominations and issue ‘amicus briefings’ before a trial.

Question 17

Arguments in favour of Pressure Groups?

REPP

Answer 17

Representation opportunities
Enhance fundamental constitutional rights Participation opportunities
Provide information

Question 18

Arguments Against Pressure Groups? (SIBIR)

Answer 18

Special interests trumps Public Interests
Iron-Triangles 
Buying political influence 
Inequality of groups  
Revolving door syndrome

Question 19

Example of Pressure Groups involvement with a Supreme Court case

Answer 19

District of Columbia v. Heller 2008 - National Rifle association = Ban on handgun was unconstitutional, violating the 2nd Amendment

Question 20

Revolving Door Syndrome?

Answer 20

Former executive/congress members take up job at Lobbying firm = exploiting experience & knowledge with their contacts, expertise & influence