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Pressure Groups

Pressure Groups. How do pressure groups differ from political parties? What is the role of pressure groups in a pluralist society? What makes a pressure group successful?. Which of these is a Pressure Group?. Definition. Pressure group – Also known as an interest group.

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Pressure Groups

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  1. Pressure Groups How do pressure groups differ from political parties? What is the role of pressure groups in a pluralist society? What makes a pressure group successful?

  2. Which of these is a Pressure Group?

  3. Definition • Pressure group – Also known as an interest group. • ‘An organisation whose members share a common interest and which seek to influence government.’ • They do not seek representation • Pressure groups seek to influence whichever party is in office.

  4. Sectional Cause Local National Transnational Umbrella Temporary Permanent Defending economic interests Campaign on behalf of others Local issue – road/hospital Local may join forces with national Greenpeace CBI Types of pressure groups

  5. Parties vs Pressure Groups • Parties have broad policy interests, pressure groups have narrow policy interests. • Parties are primarily political, pressure groups are not. • Parties fight elections, the vast majority of pressure groups do not. • Parties are usually ideological based on sets of political ideals and a philosophy, most pressure groups are pragmatic,

  6. Articles

  7. Articles

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  9. Direct: Lobbying key policy makers Writing to MPs Funding parties Boycotting firms Breaking controversial laws (eg Poll Tax) Indirect: Distributing leaflets Using media Demonstrating NB – Demonstrating- seeking to mobilise public opinion Methods used by pressure groups

  10. Sectional Groups • Definition: Members join these groups because they want to protect their own interests • Professionals – Law Society • Workers – Trade Unions • Others - Ramblers

  11. Cause Groups • Members join because they want to: • Protect others – homeless • Change attitudes – eg. Environment • Change political system – eg changing constitution. Charter 88.

  12. Insider status: BMA NFU National Trust CBI Law Society RSPCA AA Outsider status: Countryside Alliance OutRage Animal rights CND Fathers for Justice Insider vs Outsider groups

  13. Task • Distinguish between sectional and causal pressure groups. • List 3 examples each of sectional and causal pressure groups.

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