1.2 Interest Groups: Tactics & Relative Strength

Boycotting

A tactic where groups refuse to purchase goods or services from a company to express discontent, e.g., civil rights groups boycotting South Carolina.

Litigation

The process of taking legal action; exemplified by NAACP's involvement in Brown v. Board of Education.

Amicus curiae briefs

Legal documents submitted by non-litigants to advise on a case's issues; example: Westboro Baptist Church supporting the Defense of Marriage Act.

Campaign Contributions

Financial support given to candidates through Political Action Committees (PACs) to influence elections.

Endorsement of candidates

Public support given by interest groups to political candidates to enhance their chances of winning.

Targeting unliked candidates

A tactic where interest groups focus their opposition on particular candidates they disapprove of; example: Gratiot County Republicans.

Report cards

Evaluation tools used by interest groups to rate the performance of candidates based on their alignment with the group’s objectives.

Lobbying

The act of attempting to influence government officials, legislators, or regulatory agencies.

Iron Triangles

The stable, mutually beneficial relationships between interest groups, congressional committees, and bureaucratic agencies.

Free Rider Problem

A situation where individuals benefit from resources, goods, or services without directly contributing to the cost, relevant to interest groups.