Author Question: How much influence do you believe interest groups have over policy outcomes? As indicated in the ... (Read 67 times)

rosent76 · **on:** Jul 9, 2018

How much influence do you believe interest groups have over policy outcomes? As indicated in the textbook, journalists point out the fact that legislators who receive large PAC contributions often vote to please their donors.

On the other hand, political scientists explain that PACs often give money to legislators who support their agendas. What is your opinion? Provide evidence to support your argument.

What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

In Federalist No. 10, Madison expressed concerns about what he called factions.

What are some examples of modern-day factions, and is it true that these factions pursue their self-interest at the expense of the broader public interest, as Madison assumed?

What will be an ideal response?

bob · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 9, 2018

Answer to Question 1

An ideal response will:
1, Offer an understanding of both sides of the discussion regarding whether groups influence policy outcomes.
2, Discuss that while interest groups may not buy votes, they may buy time, which means lawmakers may devote the needed time and energy to promote a particular policy; in the absence of the group, the lawmaker may have been less willing to devote this time to the issue. Interest group support may lead to lawmakers working for compromises on issues, advantages like tax breaks or contracts. The influence may be more effective on non-controversial issues and on uncommitted lawmakers.
3, Discuss how despite claims of vote buying and interest group influence over votes, significant research has found a lack of such influence. Influence is unlikely to occur on floor votes, for example, because most of the important decisions have already happened in committee. Members of congress also face other sources of influence like their constituents, party leaders, and their own preferences. It is unlikely the interest can overcome these other pressures. Finally, most interest groups try to lobby members of Congress who were already going to support them anyway; thus it is unlikely the member was swayed by the group.

Answer to Question 2

An ideal response will:
1, Explain Madison's views about factions, which he defined as groups pursuing their self-interest at the expense of the broader public good.
2, Provide multiple of examples of modern-day groups that would be considered factions, such as specific interest groups, political action committees (PACs), or even political parties.
3, Explain what goals each faction pursues and evaluate whether the group's activities work against the public good.