Definition

Noun: - The practice or activities of lobbying: Lobbyism refers to the organized efforts and actions taken to influence government officials, especially legislators, on specific policies, legislation, or decisions. It involves advocating for particular interests, often by professional lobbyists or interest groups.

Usage

• Lobbyism is typically discussed in the context of politics, government, and public affairs.
• It describes the overall system or profession of attempting to exert influence, not a single act.
• The term often carries a neutral or descriptive tone in formal contexts, though it can be used critically to imply undue influence.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The new regulations have sparked an increase in corporate lobbyism.
  • Transparency in government requires clear reporting of all lobbyism.
  • She wrote a thesis on the history of lobbyism in the European Union.

Advanced Usage

• "The machinery of lobbyism": Refers to the complex systems, networks, and processes involved in professional lobbying.
  • The documentary exposed the powerful machinery of lobbyism behind the energy bill.
• "To engage in lobbyism": To participate in lobbying activities.
  • The non-profit organization engages in lobbyism to advocate for environmental protection.

Variants and Related Words

• Lobby (verb/noun): To try to influence (a public official) on an issue; or, a group engaged in such efforts.
  • Verb: They will lobby Congress for tax reform.
  • Noun: The agricultural lobby is very powerful.
• Lobbyist (noun): A person who takes part in lobbyism; a professional advocate.
  • The former senator now works as a lobbyist for a tech firm.

Synonyms

• Advocacy: The act or process of supporting a cause or proposal.
• Influencing: The act of affecting or shaping decisions or opinions.
• Petitioning: Making a formal request, especially to an authority.

Related Phrases

• Special interest lobbyism: Lobbyism conducted by groups with a very specific, often narrow, focus.
  • The debate centered on the impact of special interest lobbyism on healthcare policy.
• Grassroots lobbyism: Lobbying efforts that mobilize the general public to contact their representatives, as opposed to professional lobbyists.
  • The campaign succeeded through effective grassroots lobbyism.

Notes on Meaning

• The core meaning of lobbyism is the practice or business of lobbying. It encompasses the strategies, communications, and meetings aimed at influencing political outcomes.
• It is distinct from corruption; while lobbyism is a legal and regulated activity in many systems, it can be criticized when perceived as leading to unfair access or influence.

Noun

1. the practice of lobbying; the activities of a lobbyist