Topic 9 - Pressure Groups Flashcards
(20 cards)
What is a pressure group?
An organised group that seeks to influence public policy or decisions without standing for election themselves.
E.g. the British Medical Association (BMA), Greenpeace.
What is pluralism, and how does it relate to pressure groups?
Pluralism is the idea that political power is distributed across diverse competing groups. Pressure groups reflect pluralism by allowing multiple voices to influence decision-making.
What is the difference between insider and outsider pressure groups?
Insiders have direct access to policymakers, while outsiders operate externally and often use public campaigns.
E.g. BMA (insider), Extinction Rebellion (outsider).
What is the difference between promotional and interest groups?
Promotional groups campaign for broader societal goals, while interest groups represent specific members or professions.
E.g. Friends of the Earth (promotional), National Union of Teachers (interest).
Do pressure groups enhance or undermine democracy in the UK?
Enhance: promote participation and pluralism. Undermine: elitism and unequal access favour wealthy groups.
What role do think tanks play in influencing government policy?
They research and develop policy proposals, often aligned with ideological positions.
E.g. the Centre for Social Justice influenced Conservative welfare reform.
What are lobbyists, and how do they influence UK politics?
Lobbyists are paid professionals who seek to influence politicians on behalf of clients. Critics argue they enable behind-the-scenes influence for wealthy interests.
How do corporations seek to influence government and legislation?
Through lobbying, donations, and investment threats.
E.g. oil companies lobbying against stricter environmental regulation.
How does the media impact pressure group success?
Media coverage raises awareness and pressures politicians.
E.g. Marcus Rashford’s 2020 free school meals campaign, amplified by media.
What methods do insider groups use to exert influence?
Private consultations, submitting evidence to committees, drafting legislation.
E.g. BMA advises on health policy.
What methods do outsider groups use to exert influence?
Public protests, petitions, media campaigns, legal action.
E.g. Extinction Rebellion’s disruptive protests.
What is an example of an insider group, and how has it been effective?
The BMA influenced NHS pandemic guidance and policy by working directly with ministers and health officials.
What is an example of an outsider group, and how has it been effective?
Greenpeace UK raised public awareness on microplastics, leading to a ban on microbeads in cosmetics (2018).
How can a pressure group’s status change from outsider to insider?
By gaining public support, demonstrating expertise, or aligning with government priorities.
E.g. Liberty gained insider status on surveillance issues under the Coalition.
How does government attitude affect a pressure group’s influence?
Receptive governments boost access for aligned groups, while hostile ones shut them out.
How does public opinion impact pressure group success?
Public support gives pressure groups legitimacy and media traction.
E.g. the National Education Union gained sympathy during the Covid school closure debates.
How do resources and funding influence the effectiveness of pressure groups?
Groups with more money and staff can lobby, advertise, and litigate more effectively.
E.g. the Countryside Alliance funds large-scale campaigns.
How do pressure groups use the courts and legal action?
They challenge policies through judicial review.
E.g. ClientEarth sued the UK government over illegal air pollution levels.
How do links with political parties help or hinder pressure group influence?
Strong links can aid access, but may backfire if the party loses power.
What factors most determine whether a pressure group will be successful?
Status (insider/outsider), public support, media presence, funding, political climate, and leadership.
