17 Aug We are taking rational choice or self-interest to another level.
TOPIC
Rational individuals act on behalf of self-interest. That is one of the basic premises behind rational choice theory. If you were hungry, for example you would do whatever it took to gather enough food in order to survive. This would entail buying food or finding some means of employment in order to earn enough money to purchase food. If one could not find a job, they may even have to resort to begging or even crime to acquire sustenance.
We are taking rational choice or self-interest to another level. Students are to define Special Interests as it pertains to common interests possessed by a group of individuals that make up a unit. The “Spheres of Influence” is a good example. What exactly are Special Interests? How do they influence public policy? Is it your opinion that organized Special Interests are detrimental or beneficial? What are the biggest and most powerful Special Interests in California? What does their power consist of and how do they operate? NOTE: Give some thought to this assignment before embarking on your journey. Be sure to reference your readings if you feel stuck.
YOUR TASK FOR THIS PAPER IS TO DO THE FOLLOWING:
Define what makes up Special Interests. What types of power do they possess? Which are the most powerful in California? How do they operate in our society? How do these groups attract supporters? Why do some people willingly partner with Special Interests? Do these groups act to further elite or mass goals?
Explain how Special Interests may influence public policy in our state. Do these groups also depend on mass public support? Explain how these groups acquire power.
Is it your opinion that Special Interests play a beneficial or detrimental role in California? Explain your case by providing examples of various Special Interests that operate in our state. The following are a good example of Special Interests operating in our state: agriculture; media; gambling; refineries; real estate, environmental (conservation); and education.
