Pluralist theory

Definition

Pluralist theory posits that political power is distributed among a wide array of diverse and competing interest groups. It suggests that public policy results from the bargaining and compromise among these various groups.

Related terms

Interest Group:

An organization that seeks to influence public policy without seeking elected office itself.

Lobbying:

The act of attempting to influence decisions made by officials in the government, often by interest groups or lobbyists.

Public Policy:

A system of laws, regulatory measures, courses of action, and funding priorities by a government or its representatives used to implement and enforce public strategies