Pressure Groups Flashcards
Pluralism
Power is distributed among groups representing a range of interests
Iron Triangle Syndrome?
‘Cosy Triangles’ - relationships between:
Pressure Group + Congress Committee + Executive Department
- affectively achieve policy outcomes & self reinforcing
Promotional Groups
Casual Groups = campaign for a particular case/issue
Interest Groups
Sectional Groups = represent their group within society e.g. Trade Unions
3 main Methods used to gain influence
Elections & Endorsements, Lobbying, Grassroots activities
Pressure Groups & Environmental Protection
Sierra Club formed as a response to industrialisation - pushes for stricter laws regarding environmental protection
Example of Single Issue Groups?
National Rifle Association
Function of Pressure Group? (PEAR)
Participation
Education
Agenda Building
Representation
Elections & Endorsements
PG’s support or oppose candidates depending on their attitude towards their cause - help raise money & endorse candidates that support
Lobbying
act as a source, providing information for legislators who will appear knowledgable
Organising Grass-roots activities
activities to encourage people at local levels to get involved
Pressure Groups & Abortion Rights
ProChoice & ProLife - split groups following Roe v. Wade 1973
Pressure Groups & Gun Control
National Rifle Association 1871 has over 3m members, upholding strictest interpretation of the 2nd amendment
3 ways Pressure Groups impact Congress
Lobby Congressional Committees who amend legislation = access point to legislative process
Encourage Citizens
Endorse supportive candidates through fundraising & advertising.
How do Pressure Groups impact the Executive?
Keeps strong ties with relevant federal departments e.g. Education, Environment
How do Pressure Groups impact the Judiciary? (2)
support or appose nominations and issue ‘amicus briefings’ before a trial.
Arguments in favour of Pressure Groups?
REPP
Representation opportunities
Enhance fundamental constitutional rights Participation opportunities
Provide information
Arguments Against Pressure Groups? (SIBIR)
Special interests trumps Public Interests Iron-Triangles Buying political influence Inequality of groups Revolving door syndrome
Example of Pressure Groups involvement with a Supreme Court case
District of Columbia v. Heller 2008 - National Rifle association = Ban on handgun was unconstitutional, violating the 2nd Amendment
Revolving Door Syndrome?
Former executive/congress members take up job at Lobbying firm = exploiting experience & knowledge with their contacts, expertise & influence
