Group activity

• What are pressure groups defined as?

  Membership-based associations influencing policy not seek power or authority themselves
• What is the primary aim of pressure groups?

  To influence policy without seeking power
• What are the main functions of pressure groups?

  • Represent underrepresented interests
  • Advocate overlooked causes
  • Educate the public on political issues
  • Hold governments accountable
  • Provide political participation opportunities
• Why are pressure groups significant for democracy?

  They ensure diverse societal voices are heard
• What are the two main classifications of pressure groups?

  1. Causal Groups
  2. Sectional Groups
• What do causal groups focus on?

  Promoting specific causes or beliefs
• What are the characteristics of causal groups?

  They are altruistic and use public demonstrations
• Give an example of a causal group.

  Greenpeace
• What do sectional groups represent?

  Specific societal sections like trade unions
• What are the characteristics of sectional groups?

  They are self-interested and maintain insider status
• Name an example of a sectional group.

  BMA (British Medical Association)
• What distinguishes insider groups from outsider groups?

  • Insider Groups: Privileged access to decision-makers
  • Outsider Groups: Excluded from government decision-making
• What are the characteristics of insider groups?

  Consulted in policy formation and provide expertise
• Give an example of an insider group.

  National Farmers' Union
• What are the characteristics of outsider groups?

  Use public campaigns and mass demonstrations
• What methods do pressure groups use to influence policy?

  • Access Points: Local, national, international engagement
  • Public Campaigning: Demonstrations, petitions, endorsements
  • Lobbying: Meetings and strategy development
  • Think Tanks: Research and policy recommendations
• What is an example of a successful lobbying case?

  ASH lobbied for tobacco advertising restrictions
• What is lobbying?

  Persuasion activity aimed at influencing decision-makers
• Who are lobbyists?

  Individuals offering expertise to influence policy
• What role do lobbyists play?

  Provide strategies for accessing the political process
• What is a key consideration regarding lobbying?

  It doesn't always succeed and may conflict with public interest
• How can the status of pressure groups change?

  • Categories like insider/outsider can overlap
  • Group status may shift with political context