The Political Elite And Special Interests (current Controversies)

There is a growing sense that government is no longer of the people, by the people, and for the people. Many believe that society is manipulated by a handful of political elites and special interests. But why does each party feel that it is the elites and special interests of the other party who are in control of things? Does one person one vote still hold sway? Is this still a citizen democracy, or has it evolved into an oligarchy? Whose voice and vote really count? These and other questions and debates concerning power, influence, and who wields it are at the center of this fascinating collection of articles drawn from across the political spectrum. Full-Color Photographs, Bibliography, Detailed Table of Contents, Further Information Section, Index, Primary Sources, Websites. Are special interest groups beneficial to democracy? Overview: Interest groups are multidimensional / Green Garage ; Strong backing often equals efficacy / Michelle Leach ; Unions are among the few groups representing the middle class / David Madland and Danielle Corley ; Special interest groups do influence policy / Stephane Wolton ; Lobbying has the potential to undermine democratic ideals / George Rennie Are widespread perceptions of the political elite fair? Overview: The concept of elitism is nuanced and complicated / K. Arjun ; Political elites control power resources over the masses / Luis Garrido Vergara ; Elites are a class, not a belief / Natalie Schmidt ; The caricature of the liberal metropolitan elite is inaccurate / Ryan Shorthouse ; "Metropolitan elite" is a lazy misnomer / Michael Rundell Do special interest groups keep the political elite in check? Overview: Interest groups and elite theories explain the driving forces in politics / The University of Toledo ; Several categories of special interest groups contribute to the shape of American politics / R. Allen Hays ; The policy preferences of special interests must align with those of the general public / James Swift ; The interests of the wealthy dominate the political system / Douglas J. Amy ; Money is the most influential factor in elections / Rachel Alexander Do average Americans have an opportunity to be heard? Overview: The average American vs. the political elites ; Efforts to foster change, however small, can make a difference / Jennifer Earl ; Protest can rejuvenate democracy / Jeremy David Bendik-Keymer ; Corporations have tremendous global influence / Ryan Cristián ; Conservative lawmakers strive to limit protesters' rights / Laura Graham Organizations to contact. This book addresses the growing sense that government is no longer of the people, by the people, and for the people, and that society is manipulated by a handful of political elites and special interests. It covers questions and debates concerning power, influence, and who wields it are at the center of this fascinating collection of articles drawn from across the political spectrum