How significant are Pressure Groups & Think Tanks?

Functions:

• Representative
• Educative
• Democratic
• Participation

The two main theories of pressure groups are elitism and pluralism

• Elitist - Pressure groups can enhance power of the rich, giving more power to the rich. Insider groups concentrate power because they have more money
• Pluralist - Decentralized power

Ways in which pressure groups are NOT democratic:

• Direct action especially if it is illegal, it can disrupt the lives of people
• Trade Union had so many strikes, they used to be very powerful until Margaret Thatcher
• They are unelected, they have to be legitimate and accountable but they aren't
• Insider groups are particularly undemocratic

Arguments in which pressure are particularly democratic:

• They scrutinize and keep an eye on government
• They give a voice
• Decentralise power
• Easier to join and raise…