Final answer:
An interest group is an organization that aims to influence government policy based on a shared concern or interest, using various methods like lobbying. These groups represent a range of interests, from broad demographic concerns to specific issues, and function to link the public with the government.
Step-by-step explanation:
Definition of an Interest Group
An interest group is an organization that tries to influence public policies due to a common concern or interest. This influence is commonly executed by lobbyists or lobbying firms, which do not seek to be elected. Interest groups are also known as advocacy groups, lobbying groups, pressure groups, or special interest groups. These organizations come together to encourage or prevent changes in public policy and represent a broad array of interests and issues, ranging from the rights of large demographic groups to specific concerns such as gun control or environmental protection.
Examples and Functions of Interest Groups
Examples of interest groups include large organizations like the AARP, which advocates for the elderly, and smaller, issue-specific entities like local political party chapters. These groups provide representation, serve as a link between people and the government, and can educate the public about specific issues. Furthermore, interest groups can be categorized by their focus, such as economic interests or civil rights.