Summary The Types, Methods and Influence of Pressure Groups
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Course
Democracy and Participation
Institution
PEARSON (PEARSON)
Describes what pressure groups are, methods used, types of pressure groups, aims, what makes a good pressure group and who can be members. Complete with reference to examples.
Organisations that have political goals, normally limited to a particular interest or section of
society.
Don’t seek political office but look to influence the opinions of the general public and those in
positions of power.
Seek to influence and change government policy or legislation.
Example of pluralism in democracy, when political power is distributed across society rather
than being concentrated in the hands of the elite.
Help distribute power and give people a voice and access to politics.
Causal Groups
Campaign on a particular cause or issue such as the environment
Promote a wide interest or interests of those who cannot protect themselves
Often a wide range of people from different backgrounds
Easy to join with open membership
Can take the form of charities such as the RSPCA or Oxfam
Interest/Sectional Groups
Campaign for and look after a particular section of society, for example the British Medical
Association or Trade Unions
Membership is restricted to those in a particular profession or group
Self-interested
Social Movements
Similar to a causal groups but lacking a formal structure. They are usually politically radical and
aim to achieve a single objective.
Insider Groups
Have a relationship with those in government and so have access to officials and those who
make decisions
Can change if the government changes e.g. Trade Unions may become insider groups under a
Labour government
Outsider Groups
Lacks a close relationship with government which means they must use different tactics and
focus on getting public and media support to put pressure on the government
Methods of Pressure Groups
Publicity campaigns including digital campaigns (e.g. petitions or fundraising events such as the
‘Pits and Perverts’ benefits concert held by Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners)
Public demonstrations (e.g. Extinction rebellion and remain campaign)
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