Chapter 5 - Pressure Groups and Democracy Flashcards
Why do PGs reinforce inequalities?
The balance of groups for and against a certain matter is rarely equal, therefore those with better resources (ie. money) are more likely to get their way- bias to the rich (elitism)
Define Elite Theory
The belief that modern societies are dominated by an elite that uses its privileged position to benefit its own members while at the same time excluding others from the key decision making processes.
Who is associated with Elite Theory?
Charles Wright Mills
Who said PGs ‘strangle efficient government’? Why?
Douglas Hurd… They add a further layer to the policy making process and gov has to take a reactive stance to external single issue groups, meaning they cannot focus on balancing the books
How does the lack of internal democracy in PGs effect their overall impact in terms of how democratic they are?
They are led by a small, exclusive group and individual members often have little influence
Which groups does Neil McNaughton accuse of being particularly internally undemocratic?
BMA and Automobile Association (AA)
