Question

Explain why some interest groups have greater power or influence than others: what sorts of resources make them more effective?

Describe the differences between institutional interest groups and promotional interest groups.

Answer 1

Answer: (1)

Interest groups may gain influence because of their access to money. Indeed, financial resources are often critical in influencing governmental policy. In some cases, money is used directly to influence politicians — for example, a lobbyist may treat a legislator to an expensive dinner. These instances are almost always considered corrupt, and are often outlawed as bribery. Money can also be used in more subtle ways to pressure lawmakers into voting in a particular way. For example, because they play a large role in the national economy, large corporations have an advantage in influencing lawmakers. If these large corporations were to suddenly become less successful, it might create economic trouble, which could turn public opinion against elected officials. Thus, the wealthier a corporation is, the more political clout it tends to have. Likewise, large corporations have greater access to politicians than other groups, because corporate leaders often have insider status in powerful groups. Moreover, an interest group might also make use of financial resources in order to donate to a political campaign. In this instance, the donation is not explicitly tied to a policy vote, and is therefore a legal contribution. That being said, the expectation is that interest groups will use their wealth to elect candidates that support their issues. In all of these ways, interest groups use money to gain success and influence on many levels.

Answer: (2)

Institutional interest groups are individuals or organizations representing other groups. Typical of institutional interests are business, governments, foundations, and universities.

Promotional groups promote collective rather than selective goods.

They aim to help groups other than their own members. For example, a group fighting against bonded labour fights not for itself but for those who are suffering under such bondage.

In some instances, the members of a public interest group may undertake activity that benefits them as well as others too.

Like BAMCEF (Backward and Minority Community Employees’ Federation) is an organisation largely made up of government employees that campaigns against caste discrimination.

It addresses the problems of its members who suffer discrimination but its principal concern is with social justice and social equality for the entire society.