Interest Groups and Lobbying

Front

What is the role of interest groups in representing individuals, corporate interests, and the public before government?

Back

To inform the public and lawmakers about issues

Front

What is the primary focus of interest group activity?

Back

Promoting policies that benefit their interests

Front

What is an interest group?

Back

A formal association of individuals or organizations that attempts to influence government decision-making

Front

What are private interest groups focused on?

Back

Seeking particularized benefits that favor a single interest or narrow set of interests

Front

What is a collective action problem within an interest group?

Back

When members have a disincentive to take action and rely on others to do the work

Front

How do interest groups try to overcome collective action problems?

Back

By obtaining financial support from patrons outside the group, By offering material incentives to join the group, By requiring membership to be part of an organization

Front

What do interest groups do to influence political participation?

Back

Encourage voting, campaigning, and contacting lawmakers

Front

What recent changes have occurred in U.S. interest groups?

Back

Increase in the number and type of interest groups

Front

Why are citizens with lower socioeconomic status often not well represented by interest groups?

Back

They lack the free time necessary to participate in politics, They have financial barriers to participation, They may not believe they can make a difference.

Front

How do interest groups influence through elections?

Back

By supporting candidates who are sympathetic to their views, By forming political action committees (PACs), By providing information to lawmakers.