What are pressure groups? ******************************** Pressure groups are defined as "a group or association of people who share particular political aims". They seek to defend or raise awareness of the interests of a community, or an issue, by gaining a wide level of support. Pressure groups seek only to influence government and not to take power themselves. Sectional pressure groups represent a section of society. They often have narrow goals and are only interested in the group's interests. For example, Age UK. Promotional pressure groups represent an issue or a cause. Anybody can join the cause and they believe that what they want will benefit the community! For example, friends of the earth. Insider pressure groups have direct access to government and decision makers, and often consult with government officials. Outsider pressure groups don't have access to government and decision makers, and most choose not to. They seek public support and campaign, using methods such as direct action and social networking sites. Pressure groups seek government influence, whilst parties seek government power. Pressure groups concentrate on one issue or few issues, whilst parties have a wide array of government policies. Pressure groups are not accountable for their policies, whilst political parties are after being voted in at an election. One of the key benefits of pressure groups is that they enhance pluralism (instead of elitism), which is defined as a political system where many groups, cultures, beliefs and lifestyles are able to work together and tolerate one another. Lobbying ministers, sitting on committees, direct action and demonstrations, media campaigns, civil disobedience, internet campaigns, action through law courts ******************************************************************** CHECK US OUT ON SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES!!! Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/digestpolitics Twitter - https://twitter.com/i/notifications Blog - http://digestiblepolitics.wordpress.com/

• published: 17 May 2014
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