Interest Groups CP Government Chapter 9
Jan 02, 2016
Interest GroupsCP Government Chapter 9
What/Who are they? Definition-Private groups that try to
influence politicians and public policy.
Most interest groups form for economic reasons
Some are geographically located They can share members
3 differences between Political Parties and IG’s
1. Parties nominate people for office—IG’s try to influence politicians once they are elected
2. Parties need to have wide appeal to many issues—IG’s focus on a single issue.
3. Politicians are accountable to the public—IG’s are not.
What’s Good What’s Bad Stimulate interest Widespread Help watchdog Focus on a single
side of an issue
Cannot tell size Can be too
powerful Law breakers Interests do not
benefit all
4 Major Types of Interest Groups BUSINESS LABOR AGRICULTURAL PROFESSIONAL
Business Represent a particular company (IBM) or
industry (the steel industry) Lobby the government to get policies to favor
their interests Ex—NAM, Chamber of Commerce Can start their own interest group called a
trade association Ex-Banks, trucking co’s
Labor
For blue and white collar workers. Mostly unions that try to help improve working conditions or wages
Have lost membership and power over the years
Ex-AFL-CIO, UMW
Agriculture Represent farmers and related industries.
The most influential IG, even though
about 2% of the population farms. Ex-National Grange
AFBF, ADFA
Professional People with advanced degrees Fastest growing
EX-AMA ABA NEA
Public Interest Groups
Their causes will
generally help many people. Ex-Clean air will help a city but will
also help the people around the city.
MINOR GROUPS Promote causes—ACLU, League of
Women’s Voters Promote welfare of certain groups—
NAACP, AARP Religious groups—each religion will try to
influence the government on their issues Ex=Gun control, prohibition, voting,
women’s rights, veterans, wildlife
4 Goals of Interest Groups
1. Influence the public opinion
2. Influence elections
3. Influence politicians
4. Get whole party to see your
viewpoint
How do they do it? Lobbyists
1. Former politicians to persuade2. Honest/credible3. Registered4. Research/write laws for Congress5. Money/PAC’s
How do they do it?Propaganda/Media
Card stacking
Name calling
Bandwagon Glittering generalities
Symbols Testimonials
How do they do it?1. Get politicians elected that already hold
your viewpoint2. Use grass roots propaganda/voters3. Publicize the politician
-Good /Bad -Grades/Report Card-Voting History
4. Influence party leaders/entire party