Final answer:
Offering bribes to influence public officials is a form of Corruption, as opposed to lobbying, which involves legal strategies to influence government policy. While corruption is unethical and undermines democracy, lobbying can be a positive democratic practice that enhances the plurality of voices in policymaking.
Step-by-step explanation:
Offering bribes in an attempt to gain influence over public officials is the use of Corruption with respect to organizations influencing governments. Corruption refers to the unethical practices that subvert the integrity of political systems. It's distinct from lobbying, which is a legitimate activity entailing the art of persuading lawmakers to consider an interest group's viewpoints or goals through a variety of strategies including inside lobbying and outside lobbying. Inside lobbying involves direct interaction with lawmakers or other government personnel, while outside lobbying aims to mobilize public opinion to put pressure on political actors.
Many industries have historically leveraged their influence to obtain favorable legislation by corrupt means while interest groups, adhering to legal protocols, engage in lobbying to put forth their views. Although lobbying is the principal strategy for interest groups to make their voices heard, it can become problematic when it crosses the line into unethical behavior such as offering bribes. Unlike corruption, which undermines democratic processes, lobbying can be a part of a healthy democracy as it involves advocacy and the plurality of voices participating in the decision-making process.