How pressure groups allow people to participate in democracy?

Pressure groups allow people to participate in democracy rather than waiting for a particular government tenure to end. They do not demand the same level of dedication and commitment that political parties do but with their online forums and e-petitions people are able to air out their feelings they may have on key issues and policies, they don’t have to leave their homes for a second, but are still able to inform the government and general public their views through the pressure groups. Again, on the other hand, many members of pressure groups are not true members as they have signed up at festivals or other public events to get a free t-shirt and the occasional newsletter or a stuffed toy. For example, the RSPB – the pressure group for the protection of birds, has over one million members, out of which many just a one-time sign on nevertheless this pressure group has a massive influence on decisions made in parliament, regardless of the fact only a small amount of the population truly supports it.

In conclusion, the crux of the matter is that while pressure groups have their undemocratic features such as inaccurate representation, propaganda or not giving all the information to the public and being made up of ceremonial members, the extent to which they are good for democracy cannot be overstated as it far outweighs this. Pressure groups promote democracy by creating another channel in which people can participate in politics and presents a range of sources in which people can keep in touch with issues and give a say to minority groups.