Chapter 10 Interest Groups and Political Parties

These flashcards cover key concepts about interest groups and their roles in American politics, including definitions, theories, and types of interest groups.

What is an interest group?

An organization whose goal is to influence government.

What is lobbying?

The act of contacting government officials on behalf of a particular cause or issue.

What is pluralism in the context of interest groups?

An open, participatory style of government in which many different interests are represented.

Define hyperpluralism.

The collective effect of the vast number of interest groups slowing and stalemating American policymaking.

What does the term 'demosclerosis' refer to?

The collective effect of the vast number of Washington lobbyists in slowing the process of American democratic policymaking.

What are the two main types of interest groups?

Economic interest groups and Citizen or Public Interest groups.

What is reverse lobbying?

Efforts by government officials to influence interest groups on behalf of their preferred policies.

What is the traditional model of power in Washington according to iron triangles?

A closed process dominated by tight, durable links among powerful interest groups, congressional committee chairs, and administration officials.

What are the main benefits provided by interest groups to retain members?

Material benefits, expressive benefits, and solidarity.

What characterizes the rise of the issue network?

Shifting alliances of public and private interest groups, lawmakers, and other stakeholders focused on the same policy area.