Non-governmental entities that exercise power and/or influence over you.?

Question

So in my political science class, we learned that the meaning of political science is the study of power and influence. And we discussed how the government can have power or influence over you.

Well my assignment is as stated in the question. Some examples of non-governmental entities that exercise power and influence over you.

Normally this would be a fairly easy assignment for me to do, but I am behind in my Chemistry and Calculus class that I'm afraid I might be brain dead by the time I get to this assignment. (I like to do the most important assignments first before the easy ones.)

So any sort of help would be greatly appreciated. No half-@ss answers or remarks, please.

Thank you soooo much in advance. You don't know how much I appreciate your help.

Answer 1

Sallie Mae - Student Loans
Freddie Mac - Mortgages

Various religious organizations, especially if you live in Utah.

Some conspiracy theorists list things like "The Illuminati".

There are powerful lobbying organizations, such as the AMA, US Chamber of Commerce, etc.

Of course, there are the trade unions (although their power has greatly decreased).

Mafia, and other organized crime rings

Strictly speaking the political parties are non-governmental entities.

And, of course, good old social peer pressure -- if you don't believe it, pass gas while carpooling in a 4-passenger car.