American Government Chapter 10 Flashcards

Questions and Answers

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

Why might several competing corporations join together in an association?

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

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

purposive incentives

What are some ways to overcome collective action problems?

material, solidary, and purposive benefits Signup and view all the answers

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, and a fragmentation of interests has taken place. Signup and view all the answers

What does group participation provide to citizens?

It allows individuals to participate beyond simple voting, interact with others with similar views, and become civically engaged. Signup and view all the answers

What are some barriers to participation?

Lack of time, resources, civic skills, and institutional barriers like voter identification laws. Signup and view all the answers

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

Conservative interests favor PACs over super PACs. Signup and view all the answers

How do interest groups and their lobbyists decide which lawmakers to lobby?

They support candidates and encourage them to sponsor desired legislation. Signup and view all the answers

In what ways are lobbyists regulated?

Certain activities are prohibited, contributions must be disclosed, and lobbying is prohibited immediately after leaving office. Signup and view all the answers

How are collective goods different from private goods?

Collective goods offer broadly distributed benefits, while private goods offer particularized benefits. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

In-House Lobbyists

An in-house lobbyist represents a company as part of their job responsibilities, advocating for the organization's interests.

Collective Action in Corporations

Competing corporations often form associations to leverage collective strength.
Common industry issues may prompt collaboration among corporations.
Joint efforts can lead to mutual benefits through favorable government policies.

Purposive Incentives

Purposive incentives appeal to individuals by aligning with their values and concerns about a cause.

Overcoming Collective Action Problems

Material, solidary, and purposive benefits are incentives offered by group leaders to engage members.
Political, economic, or social disturbances can mobilize groups and facilitate collective action.

Changes in Lobbying Environment

Professional lobbying has increased over recent decades.
Interest groups now lobby both national and state governments.
Fragmentation of interests has broadened the range of lobbying efforts.

Group Participation Benefits

Membership in interest groups enables deeper civic engagement beyond voting.
Individuals can connect with like-minded people, engage in community activities, and raise awareness about issues.

Barriers to Participation

Lack of time and resources can hinder political participation.
Lower-income individuals may struggle with necessary civic skills.
Institutional barriers, such as strict voter ID laws, disproportionately affect specific groups.

PACs vs. Super PACs

PACs (Political Action Committees) are preferred by conservative interests compared to super PACs, which have fewer restrictions on donations.

Lobbying Strategies

Interest groups gain access to lawmakers by supporting candidates during campaigns, especially prioritizing incumbents.
After election, lobbyists encourage lawmakers to introduce desirable legislation, targeting sympathetic and influential legislators.

Lobbyist Regulations

Lobbyists face prohibitions on certain activities and are required to disclose contributions.
There are restrictions on lobbying activities for individuals immediately after leaving a government office.

Collective vs. Private Goods

Collective goods provide wide-ranging benefits to the public, while private goods deliver specific advantages to individuals or groups.

Description

This quiz focuses on key concepts from Chapter 10 of American Government. It includes terminology related to lobbying, associations, and the influence of corporations on governmental policies. Test your knowledge with these flashcards to enhance your understanding of political processes in the U.S.