Theoretical Perspectives
Much work has been undertaken by academics in trying to categorise how pressure groups operate, particularly in relation to governmental policy creation.
The field is dominated by numerous differing schools of thought:
1. Pluralism: This is based upon the understanding that pressure groups operate in competition with one another and play a key role in the political system. They do this by acting as a counterweight to undue concentrations of power.
- However, this pluralist theory (formed primarily by American academics) reflects a more open and fragmented political system similar to that in countries such as the United States. Under neo-pluralism, a concept of political communities developed that is more similar to the British form of government
2. Neo-Pluralism: This is based on the concept of political communities in that pressure groups and other such bodies are organised around a government department and its network of client groups. The members of this network co-operate together during the policy making process.
3. Corporatism: Some pressure groups are backed by private businesses which have a heavy influence on legislature
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