The different types of Interest groups

Define an interest group

An organised body who actively purse ways to influence the government

Define professional interest groups

A type of sectional interest group created to promote a particular professional business

Define single interest groups

A type of causal interest group create in response to a specific issue in order to promote policies that the group desirees

Define a Policy group

An ideological group that campaign on a wide range of issues

Define access points

The places or institutions that pressure groups can go to exert influence over decisions and policy

Why are there much more access points in the US than in the UK?

Due to the federal nature of the US

Where do IGs usually target?

Congress

Define special interests

A negative term used to interest groups whose influence with policy-makers is seen to undermine democracy

Define Iron triangles

A term used to describe a relationship that develops between congressional committees, the federal bureaucracy and interest groups during the creation of policy

Why are IGs important: Representation

Provides an important link between the public and politicians. They provide a channel of easy access through which ordinary citizens can vote are considered and protected (especially with the little number of political parties)

Why are IGs important: Participation

Groups increase the opportunities for ordinary citizens to participate for ordinary in the decision making process between elections. Participation on specific issues and beyond voting.

Why are IGs important: Agenda buildings

They give priority to their members’ interests (sectional groups)

Why are IGs important: Programme monitoring

Groups can scrutinise and hold govt to account in the implementation of their policies - ensures parties are legitimate