chapter 8

1.)    From table 8.1 in the text I chose the American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada (AFM). This union helps thousands of musicians daily by negotiating fair settlements, protecting ownership of recorded music, and by lobbying in our government. The AFM strives to raise the music industry standards, help professional musicians be discovered, and make sure that musicians are treated fairly in business negotiations. I first of all learned that there was a union for professional musicians who sought to help these musicians receive equal and fair pay for their services. They strongly support the arts and in fairness of treatment to performers, which I appreciate. I agree with their view points on making the music industry a better, more conventional work environment and in their mission to enhance the music industry while supporting equality for all artists.

2.)    I positively associate with the American’s United for Separation of Church and State, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit interest group. This group strongly believes that all religions should be kept separate from governmental proceedings so that we as a nation can truly practice freedom of religions, and so that other groups will not be prejudiced against because laws reflect certain religions. I strongly agree with this view. The separation of church and state are imperative to a just nation. They also believe in and celebrate all religions and seeks a nation where all citizens may freely pursue their beliefs and own personal convictions. I additionally concur with this. The Americans United for Separation of Church and State has a firm grounding of morals and beliefs that I am in the same opinion with.

3.)    I believe that some interest groups do have too much influence and power in today’s political system, but also feel that some interest groups do not have enough influence. I also agree that there is a fine line between freedom of speech and keeping unfair persuasion out of government and believe that the line is often crossed. I believe that this line is crossed when an interest groups main agenda is pushed through our government and it impedes upon the rights and equality of other citizens within the United States. I also believe that this line can be crossed when the interest groups’ beliefs can be harmful to us a nation and when it could possibly have more of a negative effect on our country than a positive one.

I commented on the following peoples blogs:

Robert Cook:  http://rcookclassblog.blogspot.com

Tinisha Key:  http://keytd.blogspot.com

Cheyenne Canter:  http://canterc.blogspot.com