Pressure Groups in Scotland

Learning Aims Identify the responsibilities of pressure groups. Examine the methods used by pressure groups.

Describe what a pressure group is. Learning Intentions: Describe what a pressure group is. Explain why pressure groups are powerful.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/clips/zkhfgk7

Pressure groups. A pressure group is made up of people who come together because they feel strongly about an issue. In the UK, the number of political parties is relatively small. Whereas there are thousands of pressure groups. As membership of political parties has fallen, that of pressure groups has increased.

Inspiring Words a small group of thoughtful, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead Anthropologist

Aims & characteristics Pressure groups. Aims & characteristics

They have the right to protest through marches, demonstrations and industrial action.

They have the right to promote their cause by using mass media and new media.

They can actively try to recruit new members

They can contact representatives to try to gain their support.

They can organise a petition to show public support.

2. Lots of knowledge & info about a particular cause or issue. Pressure groups. Why are pressure groups powerful? Govt. will often consult with a pressure group because they are experts. For example, the govt. may contact the British Medical Association (BMA) if it was going to make or change a law in relation to health. 1. Strength in numbers. 2. Lots of knowledge & info about a particular cause or issue.

Types of pressure groups Insider Pressure Groups Outsider groups.

Types of pressure groups Insider Pressure Groups Play an important role in governing the country. Have expert knowledge of a particular issue. Will be consulted and listened to by the government before policy changes – e.g BMA. Government is keen to keep these groups ‘on side’

Types of pressure groups Insider Pressure Groups Can be very powerful and have a lot of influence, for example The BMA gave evidence to the health committee on the ban on smoking in public places.

Types of pressure groups Insider Pressure Groups Methods: Usually ‘low key’ e.g. negotiation with government or writing letters/appearing on TV interviews.

Types of pressure groups Outsider Pressure groups Have less influence on the govt. Are not consulted on policies by the government and often come into conflict with the govt over their aims and principles. Use methods which will attract media attention – direct action etc

Types of pressure groups Outsider Pressure groups Example: Scottish Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament/Amnesty International They hold anti-war/ant-nuclear protest marches and blockades at Faslane.

Insider and Outsider Pressure Groups You will watch the following 2 clips and note down the methods used by Insider and Outsider groups. Organise your notes under the appropriate headings. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zepdf13RJDQ https://www.amnesty.org.uk/ http://www.fathers-4-justice.org/

Quick Questions What is a pressure group? Why do some people feel the need to form a pressure group? Explain the difference between Insider pressure groups and Outsider pressure groups. Give an example of an Insider Pressure Group Give an example of an Outsider Pressure Group

Knowledge Question Describe, in detail, two of the methods used by Pressure Groups in a democratic society 6 marks