Lobbyists and symbolic convergence in the public policy arena: Exploring the nature and significance of persuasion in lobbying-style communication
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explicate the nature and significance of persuasion in lobbying at two levels of the public policy-making process, namely a macro, or cultural context, level and a micro, or issue-specific, level. This project answered two primary substantive research questions: How do lobbyists do what they do communicatively? Why are lobbyists effective persuasively? This effort achieved two significant theoretical accomplishments: symbolic convergence theory was further validated as a general communication theory; lobbying-style communication was identified and named as a new special communication theory. Methodologically, fantasy theme analysis enabled a comprehensive examination of the shared consciousness about common lobbying experiences embedded in the oral histories of thirty-seven current and former registered lobbyists in Austin, Texas. A case study was presented to illustrate the issue-specific fantasizing that occurs involving discrete public policy issues. Recommendations for the improved practice of lobbying were outlined. A follow-up study was proposed to empirically verify the critical findings of the current study. A long-term program of research this work initiates also was described.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Berg, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Communication|Political science|Marketing
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