Astroturf Campaign in the United States
Concept of Astroturf Campaign
In the U.S., in the context of Political Participation, Interest Groups and Lobbying, Astroturf Campaign has the following meaning: The term “grassroots movement” implies a broad based, deeply rooted sentiment and action among the populace. An astroturf campaign, by comparison, is artificial – i.e., it may look like the real thing, but it is orchestrated and directed by a few well-placed interest groups. In a democratic system, grass roots support is an essential legitimizing force, so political and corporate economic campaigns often subsidize or even manufacture the appearance of grass roots activity to advance particular interests. Thus, the creation of the appearance of grass roots support has gained its own label: astro turfing. (Source of this definition of Astroturf Campaign : University of Texas)
Astroturf Campaign
Resources
See Also
- Political Participation
- Interest Groups
- Lobbying