What exactly are pressure groups, and why are they a good function of society?

Firstly, it is important to define pressure groups. A pressure group is broadly defined as 'an organised group of people who aim to influence government on a particular policy area'. The important word to remember, regarding the definition, is 'pressure' - pressure groups essentially aims to put pressure on the government to act on a particular issue area, believing it to be important. Pressure groups can be conceived as being 'insider' or 'outsider' groups - 'insider' groups typically have the support of government, including business pressure groups such as The Confederation of Business Industry. On the other hand, 'outsider' groups have to work harder to achieve this form of support and include pressure groups such as Greenpeace, and animal right groups.Pressure groups are good for society for two reasons: firstly, they help to encourage citizen participation outside of elections. Pressure groups provide a way for citizens to be involved in political matters, outside of the traditional form of voting in elections, which can help them feel more involved in the mechanisms of politics. This is good for society because it allows political participation to continue on a more continuous basis, whilst allowing minorities to have a say in political matters.Secondly, pressure groups help to bring to the forefront issues that are often overlooked. An example for this point is Amnesty International, a pressure group that draws attention to human right abuses around the world. This is important for society because it makes more people aware of such issues existing, whilst potentially mobilising citizens to act.