Interest Groups
I. Features
A. Common Interest of Members
B. Common Goals
1. Substantive Achievements
2. Obtaining Broad legitimacy
C. Organizational Structure
D. Focused Activities
E. Pluralism
II. Functions and Activities
A. Influencing Governmental Policies
1. Legislatures (lobbying)
2. Parties
3. Executives
4. Courts
B. Aggregation of Group Interests
C. Articulation of Group Interests
D. Electioneering
1. Supporting Candidates/Issues
2. Opposing Candidates/Issues
E. Consciousness Raising
F. Fund Raising
III. Operating Environment
A. Political Culture
1. Pluralism in the U.S.
2. Anti-Pluralism in Europe
B. Legal Constraints & Supports
C. Societal Complexity
IV. Sources of Strength
A. Dedicated Memberships
B. Organizational Respectability
C. Financial Resources
D. Organizational Effectiveness
E. Access to Policy Makers
F. Sharpness of Policy Focus
V. Evaluation
A. Government Responsiveness Enhanced
B. Potential for Political Stalemate
C. Enhancing Feedback Mechanism
D. Class Bias
Key Websites
American Association of Retired Persons