MIG 4 Do interest groups improperly influence government

MIG #4 Do interest groups improperly influence government? “Special Interests”

Do interest groups improperly influence government? HW Clarification: 1. Read “Did Obama Kill Public Financing? ” 2. Do a Document Analysis A. Summary – including author’s thesis & specific arguments B. Reaction – include: (1)Compare & contrast role of money in ‘ 08 to ’ 10 (using this article & the on independent groups) AND (2) in your opinion, is public financing the best option for campaign finance reform?

Do interest groups improperly influence government? • NO! They’re essential to the process. – Link the ppl to gov & gov to the ppl • Provide info to the ppl about what gov is doing • Provide info to the gov about what ppl think • Includes opinions of both the majority and the minority

More on NO! • Generate interest in gov – Gets ppl involved in the democratic process • Take on controversial issues – Elected officials avoids controversy! – These groups confront issues like gay marriage

NO! NO! • Pluralism: if all groups are represented, one group will win sometimes & the other will win sometimes (it all balances out!) • Protects us from BIG gov – gives us “little” ppl a voice!

YES! They abuse the political process! • Too much power and influence! – Who is really getting heard? • Who do they really represent? – Dominated by leaders, not members • EX: teachers’ union – Are all groups really represented equally? Is there really pluralism or does one group dominate?

YES! • Best organized & most funded get heard – Commercials – Natl Assoc of Auto dealers

Essay: Do interest groups improperly influence government? Checklist: √ Tells the reader the specific topic of the essay √ Imposes limits on that topic √ Explains the argument of the essay √ Suggest the organization of the paper √ Does not begin with “This thesis states” or “In my opinion”

More Thesis Tips! • When you make a (subjective) judgment call, specify and justify your reasoning. • Original: Socialism is the best form of government for Kenya. – WHY? • Revised: If the government takes over industry in Kenya, the industry will become more efficient. – OH! That’s why!