1. Why would a political or business organization choose to pursue astroturfing?
2. If these astroturf organizations are funded by such large companies, why don’t those companies just spend their money on large advertising campaigns?
3. Why would an organization need to use a public relations firm to get involved with astroturfing?
4. Using internet research, track down an example of an astroturf group not mentioned in this case. What are they supporting and who are they funded by?
5. Should the government get involved with some form of regulation or permit program to establish the legitimacy of these organizations? Why or why not?
6. If you were involved with a real grassroots organization, how would you convince people interested in supporting you that you were the real deal? Explain.