Similarities Between Political Parties And Interest Groups

As seen throughout todays politics, political parties and interest groups both play expansive roles in all levels of government. Such similarities between political parties and interest groups are that both form organized groups of people in order to achieve a certain task and goal in the government and be able to effectively promote, and raise money for these goals. However, while both political parties and interest groups strive for closely related goals and have some similarities, the amount of differences are vast, and easily seen. Although similar, political parties and interest groups are ultimately separate and different organizations that serve completely different purposes within the country's political system and government.

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They both ultimately try to protect and promote the causes each organization supports. This includes allowing and enabling the ability of citizens to gain a better understanding on the specific issues that are being represented in order to be informed on political decisions. In addition, both interest groups and political parties are created and based around common ideals, visions, and goals; in order to achieve change and use similar techniques to promote their ideas such as campaigning, raising money etc. Both interest groups and political parties alike try to shape political policies and are supported and funded by individuals, corporations or politicians seeking to support their cause. In addition, one similarity between the two groups is their similar method to accomplish their goals. Political parties and interest groups both actively participate in raising money, and raising awareness for issues and candidates, to ultimately influence the outcome of an election. Interest groups also use lobbying as an attempt to change and influence a politician's decisions and …show more content…
Political parties are significantly more flexible internally than interest groups are ever able to be. This is because political party members generally have similar views but don’t always agree on every single issue at hand. In response to this, every four years parties then consult with their members, in order to establish a new platform based off all the new majority viewpoints, however, their identities never change because of a change in position. Since interest groups are formed around single issues, they cannot change their official position without changing what their platform says they are. Because interest groups typically only focus on a single issue, interest groups can sometimes begin within political parties. These groups then work to influence and encourage other members within their own party to achieve their platform goals. Interest groups try to influence those people who are already in power instead of trying to acquire power. Political parties try to recruit candidates in order to win an election for their party, and help try to get their preferred candidate elected. Interest groups in comparison are more concerned on getting their supported policy passed into law.

Overall, although relatively similar, both political parties and interest groups are separate and different organizations, that both serve equal yet different purposes within