First, DESCRIBE/EXPLAIN the FUNCTIONS/ROLES interest groups play in our American political system, specifically in advancing democracy, with examples. Second, EVALUATE the ways in which the interest group system falls short of the democratic ideal.

An Interest Group is a group of people who influences public policies to their own Interest

Explanation:

The role of an Interest group  an association of people or individuals who tends to  influence policies either from the public or Government notably during the time of no campaign or elections, to their own interest.

An interest group is not a group that work outside the confines of the political system of the United States rather, they are accepted  by people, political parties or affiliation.

These Groups support things or find causes they believe would be achievable and be beneficial to everyone.

An example of  an interest groups is Mercy for Animals right organization that fights for the elimination of animal in the society.

Interest groups has some demerits in a democratic ideal in the following  ways

when your a dog and you need a bone.   go and eat a rabbit