Social movements can at times use disruptive behaviors. What are some of the possible benefits of disruptive behaviors in social movements? What are the drawbacks or possible negative consequences? What does the First Amendment state concerning citizens’ right to use disruptive methods? Refer to examples from history as you frame your analysis. Explain your answer.
As Jordan and Maloney (2007) observed, interest groups play an important role in helping to increase participation opportunities for wide ranges of citizens within democracies. Rather than being limited to the act of merely voting, interest groups allow citizens the opportunity to collectivize around shared interests and concerns, thus increasing their ability to be heard by elected representatives. However, as noted in the initial discussion question prompt, many times the spokespeople for interest groups are former elected representatives themselves.
Could the fact that elected representatives have already built personal relationships with current members of Congress actually be a good thing – as it helps interest groups gain more access on behalf of their members? Or, would interest groups (and their members) be better off with spokespersons who have no political experience?
Work Cited:
Jordan, G., & Maloney, W. (2007). Democracy and interest groups: Enhancing participation?. Springer.
Writing Requirements
· Minimum of 2 sources cited (assigned readings/online lessons and an outside source)
· APA format for in-text citations and list of references
