Political influence can be exerted in non-political affairs, and non-political entities can enter into political affairs (as exampled by transnational corporations and religious bodies). Political influence may be gained through the use of propaganda, intimidation or other pressure and may be a function of party or power politics or international conflict (including ideological conflict) for influence over other countries.
Vested interest groups have access to the means of decision-making and control it in order to perpetuate their own interests and preserve a static system. In the current era of rapid social change, such groups offer the comfort of familiar approaches and familiar solutions. Disestablished groups are largely disunited and lack access to the tools of the system, limiting effective action.