Interest Groups and Their Impact

A set of vocabulary flashcards that cover key terms and concepts related to interest groups and their influence on policy-making.

Interest Groups

Organizations that seek to influence public policy and decision-making.

Benefits of Interest Groups

They create access points for individuals to get involved in policy-making.

Labor Interest Groups

Examples include AFL-CIO, Teamsters, United Mine Workers, NEA, and UAW.

Business Associations

Organizations like the National Association of Manufacturers and Chamber of Commerce that represent business interests.

Social Movements

Collective efforts like Women’s Rights, Civil Rights, and Environmental advocacy.

Drawbacks of Interest Groups

They may overshadow general public interest and can lead to corruption.

Free Riders

Individuals who benefit from the efforts of interest groups without contributing.

Political Action Committee (PAC)

Organizations that raise and spend money to elect candidates, affected by Citizens United v. FEC.

Insider Strategies

Methods like direct lobbying and campaign contributions used by interest groups.

Outsider Strategies

Tactics such as grassroots lobbying, media efforts, and public opinion campaigns.

Honest Leadership and Open Government Act (2007)

A law aimed at increasing transparency and honesty in lobbying practices.

Revolving Door

The movement of personnel between roles as legislators and lobbyists.

Interest Groups

Organizations that seek to influence public policy and decision-making.

Benefits of Interest Groups

They create access points for individuals to get involved in policy-making.

Labor Interest Groups

Examples include AFL-CIO, Teamsters, United Mine Workers, NEA, and UAW.

Business Associations

Organizations like the National Association of Manufacturers and Chamber of Commerce that represent business interests.

Social Movements

Collective efforts like Women’s Rights, Civil Rights, and Environmental advocacy.

Drawbacks of Interest Groups

They may overshadow general public interest and can lead to corruption.

Free Riders

Individuals who benefit from the efforts of interest groups without contributing.

Political Action Committee (PAC)

Organizations that raise and spend money to elect candidates, affected by Citizens United v. FEC.

Insider Strategies

Methods like direct lobbying and campaign contributions used by interest groups.

Grassroots Lobbying

Efforts by interest groups to influence policy by mobilizing members or the general public to contact elected officials.