Political group Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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political group

[pəˈlɪtɪkəl ɡruːp ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

in politics

A political group is an organization of people who share a common political interest or goal. They often work together to achieve their objectives through lobbying, campaigning, and participating in elections.

Synonyms

political faction, political movement, political party.

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Word Description / Examples
political group

This term is generally used to describe any collection of individuals who come together to achieve political goals. It is broad and can include political parties, factions, or movements.

  • The political group campaigns for environmental justice.
  • Several political groups attended the demonstration.
political party

This term describes an organized group of people with similar political aims and opinions, seeking to influence public policy by getting its candidates elected to public office.

  • The political party announced their candidate for the upcoming election.
  • Members of the political party gathered to discuss their platform.
political faction

This term is often used to describe a smaller, sometimes dissenting, group within a larger political entity, such as a party. It can have a negative connotation if implying division or conflict.

  • The political faction broke away from the main party due to ideological differences.
  • Intra-party conflicts led to the rise of several political factions.
political movement

This term refers to a large, organized effort by a group of people to achieve a specific political goal, often involving widespread activism and collective action.

  • The civil rights political movement drastically changed society.
  • She played a significant role in the political movement advocating for climate justice.

Examples of usage

  • The political group advocated for stricter environmental regulations.
  • The political group was formed to address issues of income inequality.
  • The political group organized a protest to raise awareness about human rights violations.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The concept of political groups can be traced back to ancient Greece, where citizens formed assemblies to discuss laws and governance.
  • During the American Revolution, groups like the Sons of Liberty formed to resist British rule and advocate for independence.
  • Political parties as we know them started developing in the late 1700s, with the Federalists and Democratic-Republicans as early examples in the United States.

Political Science

  • Political groups are often categorized into various ideologies, including liberalism, conservatism, socialism, and nationalism, defining their beliefs and approaches.
  • These organizations may contribute to developing policy agendas, influencing public opinion, and mobilizing voters in elections.
  • Coalition politics often see multiple groups collaborating to achieve a common policy outcome, especially in parliamentary systems.

Pop Culture

  • In films and literature, political groups often represent larger societal debates, like 'The Hunger Games,' where districts symbolize different ideologies.
  • Popular music has historically been a tool for political groups to spread their message, with songs serving as anthems during movements, such as civil rights.
  • Political satire shows highlight the antics and controversies of political groups, making politics more relatable and engaging for the public.

Global Perspectives

  • Political groups can vary widely around the world, from movements advocating freedom and democracy to those promoting authoritarianism.
  • Organizations like labor unions and environmental associations also identify as political groups, influencing policy on specific issues like workers' rights and climate change.
  • In some countries, political groups can face oppression, leading to underground movements that resist government control and fight for change.

Psychology

  • Belonging to a political group can fulfill a psychological need for community and identity, influencing how individuals perceive themselves and their values.
  • Groupthink can occur within political groups, where the desire for harmony leads to poor decision-making and limits critical thinking.
  • The attachment to a political group can evoke strong emotions, influencing actions and opinions, often leading to divisive social interactions.

Origin of 'political group'

The term 'political group' originated in the early 20th century as a way to describe organized collections of individuals with shared political beliefs or goals. Political groups have played a significant role in shaping political landscapes and influencing government policies throughout history.