Syllabus
Key Concepts
pressure group
sectional / promotional groups
insider / outsider groups
pluralism
elitism
functional representation
pluralist democracy
Syllabus Outline
Nature of pressure groups — a knowledge and understanding of the features and functions of pressure groups; of how and the extent to which they differ from political parties; and an awareness of the different kinds of pressure groups.
Pressure group power — a knowledge and understanding of how pressure groups exert influence and of the extent of their influence, and an awareness of the distribution of power amongst pressure groups, including the factors that influence this.
Pressure groups and democracy — a knowledge and understanding of the relationship between pressure groups and democracy and, in particular, of the extent to which they promote political participation and responsive government.
Explanation of Content
Definition of pressure group — distinguish from and identify overlaps with political parties.
Types of pressure group — sectional (interest) and promotional (cause) groups; ‘insider’ and ‘outsider’ groups.
Pressure groups’ methods and strategies — e.g. links to executive, lobbying, links to political parties, public opinion campaigns.
Factors that influence the success or failure of groups — why are some groups more successful than others (e.g. economic power, financial strengths, membership base, public support)?
Changing importance of pressure groups — why have they become more important (e.g. proliferation of groups, membership growth)?
Relationship between pressure groups and democracy — functional representation; pluralism and pluralist democracy; elitism; criticisms of pressure groups.
