Final answer:
An interest group is a collection of individuals or organizations that aims to influence policy decisions within government, covering a broad range of interests such as economic policies and societal issues. They are vital for public participation in politics but can also introduce bias due to economic disparities among groups.
Step-by-step explanation:
An interest group is an association of individuals or organizations that seeks to influence policy decisions primarily within government. These groups operate in various forms to mobilize support, engage in lobbying, and educate both the public and government officials on specific issues. Interest groups can represent a wide array of interests ranging from economic concerns, such as business policies and labor rights, to environmental and public interest causes.
Economic interest groups include business groups, labor unions, professional associations, and intergovernmental lobbies. These entities strive to impact policy decisions that affect economic and business environments. On the other hand, noneconomic groups may focus on broader societal issues or specific causes, aiming to influence public policies that align with their values or address their concerns.
Interest groups are essential for democratic societies as they provide a means of participation in the political process, representing a variety of views and advocating for diverse demands. However, the influence of interest groups can also lead to factionalism and an economic bias, where interests with greater financial resources are more likely to have their voices heard and catered to by government officials.