American Government: Chapter 10

In what ways are lobbyists regulated?

- Certain activities are prohibited - Contributions must be disclosed - Lobbying is prohibited immediately after leaving office

What changes have occurred in the lobbying environment over the past three or four decades?

- There is more professional lobbying - Many interests lobby both the national government and the states - A fragmentation of interests has taken place

Why might several competing corporations join together in an association?

- because there is often strength in numbers - because they often have common issues that may affect an entire industry - because they can all benefit from governmental policies

What does group participation provide to citizens?

By joining interest groups, individuals can participate in ways that go beyond simple voting. They can interact with others with similar views. They can become civically engaged by becoming more connected to their communities, they can participate in protests and letter-writing campaigns, and they can inform others about the issues.

How are collective goods different from private goods?

Collective goods offer broadly distributed benefits, while private goods offer particularized benefits.

What is a difference between a PAC and a super PAC?

Conservative interests favor PACs over super PACs

What are some ways to overcome collective action problems?

Incentives that help overcome collective action problems include material, solidary, and purposive benefits. These are often offered by group leaders. Sometimes, political, economic, or social disturbances help overcome collective action problems by mobilizing groups.

How do interest groups and their lobbyists decide which lawmakers to lobby? And where do they do so?

Interest groups and lobbyists often attempt to gain access by first supporting candidates when they run for office. Since incumbents have an advantage, lobbyists often contribute to them. Second, once legislative members are in office, interest groups and their lobbyists try to encourage them to sponsor legislation the groups wants. They may target sympathetic lawmakers, legislative leaders, and members of important committees.

What are some barriers to participation?

Numerous barriers prevent people from participating in politics. Some people lack time or other resources to participate. Lower-income individuals and groups may lack the necessary civic skills to participate effectively. Institutional barriers like voter identification laws may disproportionately affect some people more than others.

Someone who lobbies on behalf of a company that he or she works for as part of his or her job is ________.

an in-house lobbyist

What type of incentives appeal to someone's concern about a cause?

purposive incentives