The Diversity and Extent of group activity

Question 1

how many organisations are recognised by the

‘Directory of British Associations’?

Answer 1

34,000

Question 2

how many voluntary bodies are there?

Answer 2

half a million

Question 3

What did Alexis de Tocqueville in the 1830’s say about pressure groups after visiting the US?

Answer 3

That pressure groups had become a ‘Powerful instrument of action’

Question 4

Who said That pressure groups had become a ‘Powerful instrument of action’ in 1830?

Answer 4

Alexis de Tocqueville

Question 5

What is a civil society?

Answer 5

the arena of social life above the personal realm of the family but beneath the state
-compromises mainly of voluntary organisations and civil associations that allow individuals to work together in groups, freely and independently of state regulations

Question 6

Why has the extent and scope of governmental activity in the second half of the 20th century with
health
education
housing
resulted in a growth of pressure group activity?

Answer 6

Many people want more and better facilities and benefits for the poor, the homeless, mentally and physically handicapped among many others

Question 7

How has the growth of complexity and specialism in modern life resulted in a growth of pressure group activity? give an example

Answer 7

People belong to many sub groups
e.g) those working in the medical field will belong to the main union of health sector unions as well as more specialised associations such as those for ambulance drivers

Question 8

a surge in interest for single issue campaigns has resulted in a growth of pressure group activity, give 3 examples of 3 single issues ?

Answer 8

• gay rights
• export of live animals
• gun control

Question 9

The development of the mid-20th century of a multi-cultutal and multi-ethic society has resulted in the growth of pressure group activity, what 4 pressure groups have been created because of this

Answer 9

• British Sikh Federation
• Forum of British Hindus
• Muslim Council of Britain
• Anti-Nazi League

Question 10

Why has the emergence of new issues and the onset of post materialism resulted in a growth of pressure group activity? (1+3)

Answer 10

Many younger, better educated voters with post-materilstic attitudes want to express their views about a

• better environment
• future of nuclear energy
• need for social and political empowerment

Question 11

What new ideas of post-materialism have began ? (3)

Answer 11

• ecology
• feminism
• gender equality

Question 12

How have improvements in communication facilitated the growth of pressure groups ?

Answer 12

emails and other innovations have allowed protesters to become organised and has stimulated group development