ap gov unit 11

Actual Group

Made of those in the potential group who choose to join, varying in degree of enrollment from the potential group.

Amicus Curiae Brief

Meaning 'friend of the court,' written arguments submitted to the courts in support of one side of the case.

Class Action Lawsuits

Allows a group of similar plaintiffs to combine similar grievances into a single lawsuit.

Collective Good

Something of value that can’t be withheld from potential group members; benefits are shared by the potential group members and the actual group.

Electioneering

Aiding candidates financially and getting their members to support them to get the right people into office.

Elite Theory

Proliferation of business PACs are evidence of more interest group corruption in politics; wealthier interests have advantages in the PAC system.

Free-Rider Problem

When potential group members don’t join, but sit back and let actual group members do the work while still benefiting.

Hyperpluralist Theory

When a major interest group objects to some legislation, policymakers try to accommodate it no matter what.

Interest Groups

Organizations with similar policy goals that seek to influence the political process at every level and branch of government.

Lobbying

Political persuading usually done by representatives of organized groups; includes regular lobbyists and lobbyists for hire.

Olson’s Law of Large Groups

The bigger the group, the more difficult it is to secure help.

Pluralist Theory

A rough approximation of the public interest emerges from competition between interest groups.

Political Action Committees (PACs)

Ways for interest groups to participate in electioneering; funds go to candidates' campaigns, often favoring incumbents.

Potential Group

Made of all people who might become group members because they share similar interests.

Public Interest Lobbies

Groups that champion causes in the public interest; organizations seeking collective good that benefits everyone, regardless of membership.

Right to Work Law

Outlaws union membership as a condition of employment; often supported by business groups.

Selective Benefits

Goods that a group can restrict from the potential group; benefits include publications, discounts, and group insurance rates.

Single-Issue Groups

Groups with a narrow interest that dislike compromise and single-mindedly pursue their goals.

Subgovernments (Iron Triangles)

Made of key interest groups, a government agency to administer policy, and congressional members that handle the same policy.

Union Shop

Requires new employees to join the union to keep their job, a practice established by unions.