Pressure Groups

Created by: TabithaNash16
Created on: 15-02-21 17:03

What is the definition of a pressure group?

Pressure groups are groups who seek to influence government policy or public opinion without actually standing for office in elections.

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Examples of pressure groups?

Green Peace

RSPCA

C&D

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What distinguishes pressure groups from political parties?

PG do not normally seek governmental office or to hold power
PG often have less internal democratic structures than PP
PG resort to illegal action to achieve aims, whereas PP highly unlikely to endorse law breaking
PP as result of their nature hold views

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What are some more differences between pressure groups and political parties?

PG by contrast are more specific and may have more circumscribed aims
PG have enjoyed in recent years a growing membership whereas PP experienced declining roll
PG have fewer restraints on funding and finance than PP who are closely audited

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What is an informative function?

inform policy makers and ensure that interests and view of section of the public are taken into account

e.g. Distinction Rebellion

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What is a representative function?

represent the interests of specific sections of the public or best interests of the whole community

e.g. NSPCC

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What is an educational and research function?

many pressure groups undertake research on issues and help raise awareness of the issues

e.g. Green Peace

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What is a participation function?

allow citizens to participate in politics when they wouldnt normally get involved

e.g. Student Union

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What is a scrutiny function?

pressure groups will scrutinize legislative and policy proposals and respond to Parliamentary consultation procedures

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What is a tension release?

Some pressure groups use campaign methods which channel emotions generated by issues where there is strong depth of feelings on the subjects

e.g. RSPCA

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Other cards in this set

Card 2

Front

Examples of pressure groups?

Back

Green Peace

RSPCA

C&D

Card 3

Front

What distinguishes pressure groups from political parties?

Back

Card 4

Front

What are some more differences between pressure groups and political parties?

Back

Card 5

Front

What is an informative function?

Back

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Pressure Groups