PS 101 Interest Groups Fall 2008

This document summarizes different types of interest groups and how they try to influence public policy. It discusses public interest groups that focus on general welfare issues and private interest groups that represent economic interests like businesses. It also describes the "inside game" of direct lobbying and the "outside game" of mobilizing public opinion. Finally, it notes some criticisms of the interest group system, like certain groups having greater representation and resources than others.