The Effects of Pressure Groups on the Government

The Effects of Pressure Groups on the Government

Before deciding whether pressure groups democratise government or make

them more effective, it is essential to define what a pressure groups

consists of. A modern democratic society involves active citizenship,

an open government, the right to vote over the age of 18 years,

community, free speech, participation and pluralism. Although

elections provide an effective opportunity for people to play a part

in politics they are only held once every four years, therefore

pressure groups provide continuous involvement in politics.

Pressure groups provide an open freedom for citizens, especially

minority groups. When like-minded individuals organise events such as

demonstrations, campaigns and petitions, governments have no option

but to sit up and take notice. Moreover, as pressure groups are based

on a single issue, which a large group of people support, they can put

their time and effort into being heard by the government.

In the USA however, the term “pressure group” is not favoured amongst

academics. They see it as a tool that implies force rather than

persuasion, thus refer to them as “interest groups”[1]. This issue

will be discussed further in the American politics part of this essay.

Pressure Groups In Britain

Stereotype has it that the relationship between pressure groups and

the government is adversarial. However pressure groups often prove

they are very useful by providing information to government ministers

and civil servants if they lack information on policies, particularly

controversial issues. Pressure groups provide a “Pro and Anti”

argument when controversial issu...

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...oice if they do not

intend to join a political party. Moreover it is essential to realise

pressure groups intend to influence policy, not control it. Therefore

the governmental powers remain whilst the keep a firm grip on their

voters though pressure groups.

Bibliography

* Politics USA – Mckeever, Zvesper, Maidment

* American Politics and Society – David Mckay

* Government and Politics of the United States – Nigel Bowles

* Politics UK – Wyn Grant

* www.bbc.co.uk/news - politics section

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[1] - American Politics and Society: David Mckay. Politics USA:

Mckeever, Zvesper, Maidment

[2] - Wyn Grant (Political theorist): Politics UK

[3] - Adapted from ‘Government and Politics of the United States;

Nigel Bowlesb