6.4 Political Pressures
Unsolicited political pressures can persuade governments to be responsive, but they tilt the balance of power on behalf of specific groups.
6.4.1 Overview of Political Pressures
influences on politicians: the public, media, interest groups and money
6.4.2 Political Communication with the Public
politicians try to please the public because they need its support
6.4.3 Media Organisations in Politics
news media can influence people and politicians, sometimes misleading them
6.4.4 Interest Groups and Pressure Groups
groups of people with a shared interest, who can influence politicians
6.4.5 Money in Politics
wealthy donors can buy influence and distort democracy
6.4.6 Balancing Political Pressures
extreme opinions distort a politician’s perspective; balance is needed
The next segment describes ways of consulting the people, either by electing politicians as representatives or by involving them directly.