Question

Individuals may benefit from the work of interest groups even if they don't participate in the group's activities. Because of this, some groups have difficulty recruiting members, a phenomenon known as:

a) Disengagement
b) Apathy
c) Free Riding
d) Alienation

Answer 1

The phenomenon of individuals benefiting from the work of interest groups even without actively participating in the group's activities is known as free riding. Interest groups can overcome this by providing incentives to their members.

Step-by-step explanation:

The phenomenon of individuals benefiting from the work of interest groups even without actively participating in the group's activities is known as free riding. Free riders gain the benefits of membership without contributing or taking action. This can make it difficult for interest groups to recruit members.

Interest groups offer collective goods that benefit both members and non-members alike. For example, laws successfully lobbied for by environmental organizations that lead to cleaner air and water benefit everyone, regardless of their membership status. However, non-members get a free ride, enjoying the benefits without participating in the group's activities.

Interest groups can overcome free riding by providing incentives to their members. These incentives can include material benefits, solidary rewards (such as the pleasure of interacting with like-minded individuals), and purposive incentives (being motivated to help the group achieve its goals).