Fiveable
Fiveable

Interest group

Definition

An interest group is an organized group of individuals or organizations that share common goals and work together to influence government policy in their favor.

Analogy

Think of an interest group as a team of people who join forces to play a game. Each player has their own specific skills and positions, but they all come together with the common goal of winning the game. Similarly, an interest group consists of different individuals or organizations with diverse backgrounds and resources, but they unite to achieve their shared policy objectives.

Related terms

Lobbyist: A lobbyist is a person hired by an interest group to advocate for their interests by persuading lawmakers to support policies aligned with the group's goals.

PAC (Political Action Committee): A PAC is a type of organization formed by an interest group that can raise money from its members and donate it to political campaigns or candidates who support the group's agenda.

Grassroots Campaign: This term refers to organizing efforts undertaken by members or supporters of an interest group at the local level, aiming to mobilize public opinion and put pressure on policymakers.

collegeable - rocket pep

Are you a college student?

  • Study guides for the entire semester

  • 200k practice questions

  • Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab



© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.


© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.