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INTEREST GROUPS. An interest group is a group of like-minded individuals who encourage or prevent changes in public policy without trying to be elected. INTEREST GROUPS. Functions : Stimulate interest in public policy.
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INTEREST GROUPS • An interest group is a group of like-minded individuals who encourage or prevent changes in public policy without trying to be elected.
INTEREST GROUPS • Functions: • Stimulate interest in public policy. • Represent members based on interests / attitudes (not geography – like elected officials). • 3. Provide information to the government (politicians). • 4. Act as a vehicle for political participation. • 5. Act as a check and balance for politics. • 6. Competitively balance each other. • DO NOT NOMINATE CANDIDATES
INTEREST GROUPS • Criticisms: • Interest groups push their own agenda, which is not always in the best interest of most Americans. • 2. Better organized + better funded = more influence. • 3. Some groups use bribes, threats, etc. to accomplish their goals.
INTEREST GROUPS • What are interest groups you’ve heard of? • http://www.vancouver.wsu.edu/fac/kfountain/alpha.html