Chapter 16

A collection of people or organizations that tries to influence public policy.

The theory that political ppower is distributed among a wide array of diverse and competing interest groups.

The theory that interest groups form as a result of changes in the political system.

An organization that seeks a collective good that will not selectively and materially benefit group members.

A group with the primary purpose of promoting the financial interests of its members.

Funds that an appropriations bill designates for specific projects within a state or congressional district.

Interest group representative who seeks to influence legislation that will benefit his or her organization or client through political and/or financial persuasion.

A group that represents a specific industry.

The activities of a group or organization that seek to persuade political leaders to support the group's position.

Potential members fail to join a group becuase they can get the benefit, or collective good, sought by the group without contributing the effort.