Term Paper on "Interest Groups and Lobbying"

Term Paper 3 pages (1003 words) Sources: 1+

[EXCERPT] . . . .

Interest Groups and Lobbyists

It is a matter of some concern to American citizens that the framers of the constitution did not discourage the formation of interest groups and the lobbyists who support such groups even though it tries to curb their powers so they will not dominate the legislature. An interest group is defined as, "…an association of individuals or organizations or a public or private institution that on the basis of one or more shared concerns attempts to influence public policy in its favor. . . . Together with political parties, interest groups are a major means by which people with similar interests and concerns are brought together and . . . their views articulated to government. Interest groups act as major intermediaries between citizens and the government by representing the views of their members to public officials, particularly between elections." (Thomas and Hrebenar p.102)

Lobbyists on the other hand support certain interests or "causes" and would try to influence the policy making process by contacting people in power. It is believed rather strange that the constitution doesn't completely discourage or ban such actions. It is thus important to know why the framers would allow interest groups and lobbyists to operate within the legislature furthering their own interests and objectives. "One of the primary instruments interest groups use to influence policy is the lobbying of legislators. Lobbying is the direct and private transfer of information to politicians in the legislature." (de Figueiredo, 2004)

The reason for the existence and protection of these groups is hidden in the many functions they perform that support the political system of our country. Interest groups inform the policymakers about important issues and how they are affecting the nation. They also educate the public on matters of grave significance and may even help in candidate recruitment process. These groups have also been funding political campaigns by forming political action committees.

It is also worth mentioning that when framers formed the constitution, interest groups were not as politically active as they are today. They had a different purpose of existence and hence they were not considered a threat. In those days groups with one common economic or social objective would get together for the purpose of educating others about some matter of importance. They would publish magazines, journals or distribute pamphlets. But over the years, these interest groups have gained power and thus changed form. They have become politically aware and active with strong inside connections which make them more of a threat than anything to the legislation process.

Interest groups however use lobbyists to further their interests. These lobbyists have access to policymakers and can thus act like a direct link between interest group and the legislature. But lobbyists do not have to be part of any interest group to exist. They can be any representative in the government who has an issue to promote and would exercise his power to support some cause, reform or policy decision.

There are some specific categories of… READ MORE

How to Reference "Interest Groups and Lobbying" Term Paper in a Bibliography

Related Term Papers:

Interest Group Term Paper

Interest Groups

'special' interest group determined to eradicate the influence of 'special' interest groups in the U.S. Congress and across the nation -- Common Cause

An interest group is defined… read more

Term Paper 2 pages (854 words) Sources: 1+ Topic: Government / Politics

---

Interest Groups and Political Parties Including Their Functions Essay

Interest Groups and Political Parties

The democratic process engages individuals in different ways and for diverse reasons. The American political system depends on the involvement of citizens in the direct… read more

Essay 2 pages (634 words) Sources: 1+ Topic: Government / Politics

---

Interest Groups Research Proposal

Interest Groups

Catholics for Choice (http://www.catholicsforchoice.org/actioncenter/default.asp)

This is a pro-choice group comprised of members of the Catholic religion. Members not only believe in choice, or a right to abortion, but… read more

Research Proposal 1 pages (474 words) Sources: 0 Topic: Sexuality / Gender

---

Environmental Interest Groups Essay

Environmental Interest Groups

The National Cattleman's Beef Association: Environmental group profile

The National Cattleman's Beef Association: Environmental group profile

While most individuals think of environmental interest groups as predominantly left-wing… read more

Essay 3 pages (1050 words) Sources: 2 Topic: Agriculture / Food / Culinary

---

Political Parties vs. Interest Groups Term Paper

Political Parties and Interest Groups

This paper explores the history of the two main political groups in America and then compares them to interest groups. The writer examines the history… read more

Term Paper 7 pages (1766 words) Sources: 4 Style: MLA Topic: Government / Politics

---

View 100+ more related papers  >>