Pressure Groups and Democracy
The debate about whether pressure groups enhance democracy (by increasing participation and representation) or undermine it (by giving disproportionate influence to well-funded interests).
Real World
Fossil fuel companies spending millions on professional lobbying firms in Westminster to weaken climate legislation illustrates the elitist critique — that wealthy, organised interests can systematically outgun unorganised public majorities in the policy process.
Exam Focus
Structure 'discuss' answers around the pluralist case, then the elitist counter-case, then reach a substantiated judgement — avoid sitting on the fence.
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