Topic 3: Interest groups Flashcards

1
Q

What are interest groups?

A

Groups that represent a particular interest or cause in society and seek to influence policy.

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2
Q

What are the three types of interest groups?

A
  1. Policy groups - attempt to influence a whole policy area e.g. American Israel Public Affairs Committee.
  2. Professional groups - represent the economic interests of their members e.g. the American Medical Association (AMA).
  3. Single-interest groups - advocate policy around a single, specific issue e.g. the National Rifle Association (NRA).
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3
Q

Why are interest groups so significant in the USA?

A
  1. 1st amendment protects their rights
  2. Many access points to different branches of government - e.g. Congress.
  3. Many elections = many opportunities to influence candidates at local, state and federal level.
  4. Politicians are open to persuasion because politicians do not feel the pressure to vote within party lines; interest groups can also monitor the voting record of politicians.
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4
Q
A
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