Interest Groups and Their Influence

A set of flashcards focused on key concepts related to interest groups, their benefits and drawbacks, strategies for influencing policy, and associated ethical considerations.

Interest Groups

Organizations that seek to influence public policy to benefit their members or the causes they support.

Benefits of Interest Groups

They create access points for all individuals to get involved in political processes.

Labor Interest Groups

Organizations representing the interests of workers, such as AFL-CIO and United Mine Workers.

Drawbacks of Interest Groups

They can overshadow general public interest and lead to corruption.

Insider Strategies

Methods used by interest groups that involve direct interaction with policymakers, such as lobbying and campaign contributions.

Outsider Strategies

Methods used by interest groups that engage the public or the broader media to influence policymakers indirectly.

Political Action Committee (PAC)

A political committee that campaigns for or against candidates or issues, often funded by contributions from individuals and interest groups.

Citizens United v. FEC

A Supreme Court case that allowed for unlimited independent political spending by corporations and unions.

Revolving Door

The movement of individuals between roles as legislators and regulators and the industries affected by the legislation and regulation.

Iron Triangles

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