Political Parties and Interest Groups

Flashcards covering key concepts related to political parties, interest groups, and the media's role in politics.

What is a political party?

A team of people seeking to control the governing apparatus by gaining office in a duly constituted election.

Who joins political parties?

People who are seeking to control the governing apparatus.

What is a uniparty?

When there is only one ruling political party or multiple parties, but they are similar to one another.

What is the two party system?

Two major parties that compete for power.

What are the traditional differences between democrats and republicans?

They differ in gun control, economic policies, the environment, and social issues.

What are the advantages of joining a political party?

Parties can pick candidates, run campaigns, give cues to voters, articulate policies, and coordinate policymaking.

What is a multi party system?

More than 2 major political parties that are competing for power.

What are the advantages of a multi party system?

More diverse opinions on how the government should run.

What are the disadvantages of a multi party system?

It makes voters confused about who to vote for.

Where are multiparties common?

They are common in countries that have multiple political parties, offering many opinions on governance.

What is an interest group?

An organization of people who share policy goals, entering the policy process at several points to achieve those goals.

Who joins interest groups?

People who have incentives in solitary, purposive, and material.

What are some different types of interest groups?

Labor, Agriculture, and Business.

What is the major function of interest groups?

They try to influence government decisions.

Who are lobbyists?

People who influence government decisions.

What does a lobbyist do?

They influence government decisions by advocating for causes they care about.

Who are the most successful lobbyists?

NRA, AMA, PhRMA.

What is a political action committee (PAC)?

An organization that raises and spends money to influence legislation at various government levels.

How are PACs and interest groups related?

PACs raise and spend money to support a cause, while interest groups advocate, lobby, and educate.

What role does the media play in shaping public opinion?

The media influences a cause or candidate through news or commercials.

How is the media important during an election cycle?

It informs voters about candidates and their positions to aid in decision-making.