Pressure Groups Vocab Flashcards
(15 cards)
What role do pressure groups play in a pluralist democracy?
PGs are critical to pluralist democracy
in which many different groups and sections of the population hold power and can influence politics.
What are pressure groups?
Pressure groups are groups that seek to influence politics in order to achieve goals.
What are the two main categories of pressure groups?
Sectional and causal pressure groups.
How do sectional pressure groups differ from causal pressure groups?
Sectional pressure groups represent specific sections of society and aim to promote their members’ interests. (Trade Union)
Causal pressure groups focus on promoting a particular cause or issue, not just member interests. (Charites)
Can you provide examples of sectional pressure groups?
British Medical Association (BMA) and the Law Society.
Who is allowed to join causal pressure groups?
Membership is usually open to anyone who supports the cause
allowing for broader participation.
How is the influence of a pressure group typically assessed?
It is judged by the group’s ability to change policy or legislation in its favor.
What factors affect the effectiveness of a pressure group?
Key factors include resources, public support, and the socio-economic status of members.
What criticisms do some people have regarding the role of pressure groups in democracy?
Critics argue that pressure groups can undermine democracy by giving a disproportionately loud voice to well-resourced interests.
What is the ‘revolving door syndrome’ in the context of pressure groups?
It refers to the movement of individuals between government and private sector positions, particularly in industries they previously regulated or lobbied.
Why do individuals choose to join pressure groups?
People join because they feel strongly about a political cause, wish to influence change, or gain benefits like legal representation and job protection.
What distinguishes insider pressure groups from outsider pressure groups?
Insider pressure groups have regular contact with decision-makers and work within the political system.
While outsider groups do not have such access and operate outside the system.
How do social movements differ from formal pressure groups?
Social movements lack a formal structure and can include individuals who may belong to multiple groups or participate in specific issues without ongoing membership.
Can you name some key examples of social movements and their objectives?
Examples include the Anti-Iraq War protests (2003), Fridays for Future (climate activism), Black Lives Matter demonstrations (2020).
What impact did social media have on the organization of social movements?
Social media facilitates rapid connection and organization, allowing movements to mobilize large numbers of participants quickly.
