Chapter 8

1.      From figure 8.1 in the text, select one of the interest groups and do some research on their issues and beliefs. What did you learn? What did you find interesting? Do you agree/disagree with their positions on issues? Why?

NEA fights to protect academic freedom at both the campus and government levels, to ensure protection for the faculty and quality for the student. There are several issues that are continuously relevant to the NEA, such as No Child Left Behind (NCLB) and the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). I believe the NEA is a great interest group that supports education.

2.      Find an interest group with which you associate (positively). What is the name of the group and what do you find persuasive about their position on issues?

I think the NEA is an interest group that I positively agree with. This group focuses on academic freedom and the group has taken huge steps over the years to protect education and educators. The NEA was birthed to fight for the rights of both children and educators. It is the largest professional organization and largest labor union in the United States.

3.      Do interest groups have enough/too much/the right amount of power in the political system? Most believe it's a fine-line balance between freedom of speech for the groups and keeping unfair persuasion out of government. Where is that line and when is it crossed?

I think interest groups have the right amount of power in the political system. They are a more effective way to influence politics and act to achieve balance. They can only have too much power if they take it from others without their will, like a union. They can have too little power if they are suppressed from gaining power. If I want to protect my individual right to keep and bear arms then I would support the NRA before depending on a candidate or party about my concerns.

 

 

I commented on Ronald Payne's, Adrian Arthur's, and Dara Cates's blog.