Interest Groups and Social Movements

Flashcards created to help review key concepts about interest groups, social movements, and their tactics.

What are interest groups?

Voluntary associations of people working to get their favored policies enacted.

What do social movements aim to do?

Educate the public and pressure policymakers to bring about societal change.

What did Federalist 10 say about interest groups?

Interest groups form factions, and competition prevents any one group from dominating.

What is a challenge facing interest groups regarding collective action?

People must come together to advocate for change, which is necessary for sustained pressure on lawmakers.

What is meant by 'collective good' in the context of interest groups?

A benefit that everyone receives, even those who didn't participate in the advocacy.

What is a 'free rider' in terms of interest groups?

An individual who benefits from collective action without contributing to it.

What are economic tactics used by interest groups?

Advocacy on behalf of financial interests, often leveraging their funding.

What is meant by 'single issue' interest groups?

Interest groups that focus exclusively on one societal issue, like abortion or gun control.

What is direct lobbying?

Face-to-face meetings with members of Congress or specific agencies to advance policy goals.

What is the 'revolving door' concept in lobbying?

The movement of individuals between government positions and lobbying roles.

How do interest groups influence legislation?

By contacting members of Congress, preparing reports, and drafting bills.

What role do lawsuits play for interest groups?

Interest groups file lawsuits to see desired changes or submit amicus curiae briefs.

What are PACs in the context of interest groups?

Political Action Committees that donate money directly to candidates.

What is a Super PAC?

A committee that can spend unlimited money independent from a candidate's campaign.

What is grassroots lobbying?

Mobilizing interest group members to apply pressure on their representatives.

How do scorecards relate to interest groups?

Scorecards indicate how likely candidates are to support the goals of interest groups.

What is the purpose of protests organized by interest groups?

To gain media attention and inform the public about specific issues.