Interest groups and democracy.
Reflect on interest groups and democracy. Discuss whether interest groups magnify the power of individuals to influence government and public policy or if they are used as a tool to exclude “regular people” in favor of wealthy elites. Also discuss whether changing the present election system so that it runs on limited public financing, via tax dollars, instead of contributions from interest groups and wealthy donors, would make the system more democratic and open.
In responding to your classmates, discuss if such a policy violates the free speech rights of interest groups and their members.
Sample Solution
Interest groups are a form of organized political influence which strive to bring together like-minded individuals with the purpose to further their specific interests. With that stated, they can be used as a tool for either magnifying the power of individuals’ to influence government and public policy or used as a means to exclude “regular people” in favor of wealthy elites.
The activity of interest groups provides an essential counterweight to those who have traditionally held greater power within society (Bessette & Wood, 2015). In this way, interest groups provide marginalized or otherwise voiceless citizens with access to representatives and officials, allowing them a platform from which they can express their views as well as lobby for change. Additionally, by attempting to create balance between unrepresented perspectives and existing policies, interest groups can make government more responsive and inclusive for everyone (Bessette & Wood, 2015). By having access to such representation these individuals gain greater autonomy when it comes to influencing public policy. Moreover, the equality provided by these organizations helps break down barriers imposed by wealth that may prevent certain members of society from having their concerns heard (Hirisi et al., 2017).
On the other hand, however, interest groups may also be misused as a tool wielded exclusively by wealthy elites – exclusive groupings whose main aim is effectively determined through financial donations rather than genuine commitment towards achieving shared goals (Garcia et al., 2019). This can result in policies being shaped according solely on individualistic interests rather than collective ones – leading ultimately lead to an inadequate representation of both issues faced within society and its citizens themselves. It is important then that governments monitor closely how organizations interact with one another as well how much money flows into each respective organization so that efforts remain transparent and democratic (Garcia et al., 2019).
In conclusion, it is evident that while interest groups may indeed serve an invaluable role in allowing everyday individuals contribute towards shaping public policy through providing them with direct access at governmental level; they must not become tools used exclusively by those already part of wealthier social circles – instead allowing all voices be heard regardless of economic status or gender identity etc.. To achieve true democracy it is therefore necessary both ensure participation across multiple societal backgrounds but also increase transparency surrounding exactly how funds are distributed among different parties involved in any potential decision making process (Hirisi et al., 2017).