The Medical Reform Group of Ontario

Abstract

<p> The primary purpose of this thesis is to provide an in-depth analysis of a political interest group. In doing so, some of the theoretical studies that attempt to explain why groups arise and why individuals freely join them have been empirically tested. It is noteworthy that most of the members surveyed would not renew their membership if the group stopped lobbying and only supplied "Selective incentives". </p> <p> The secondary purpose of this thesis is to contribute to the literature on the politicalization of health care. The Medical Reform Group of Ontario is a relatively small, yet highly politicized group of progressive doctors who want to make the health care system more democratic and preventative in nature. As far as the author knows, this is the first academic investigation of any kind into the Medical Reform Group. </p> <p> In carrying out these two purposes, it is argued that the Medical Reform Group is a product of social changes which took place in medical practice over the last decade and that, despite assumptions to the contrary, "rational men" will voluntarily join a political interest group to solely advance its political (or collective) goals. </p>