Public Relations’ definitions are divided into those that support the humanitarian side and the idealistic social role of them and those that support that Public Relations is a basic tool of corporate propaganda.
This paper presents the idealistic side of Public Relations but also analyzes the critisisms of PR as a means of propaganda and media manipulation.The paper concludes that PR is not just getting material to the media and gain free publicity but it is rather a powerful means in the corporate armory. Definitely, it is not either propaganda or campaigning but it is a communicative mode aiming at promoting corporate interests while at the same time with the inclusion of ethics, it takes care of the company image and makes the company a responsible part of society.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Public Relations - Definition
- The role of PR practitioner
- Criticisms on the PR practitioner role
- Public Relations and Ethics
- Research finding on PR and Ethics
- Strategic Management and Ethics
- Business and Ethics
- Recommendations for PR practitioners
- Conclusions
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This paper explores the complex nature of public relations, examining its definition, role, and ethical considerations. It aims to shed light on the less transparent aspects of this field, particularly those concerning its relationship with the media.
- The evolution and diverse definitions of public relations
- The role and responsibilities of PR practitioners
- The ethical challenges and considerations within the public relations field
- The impact of public relations on strategic management and business ethics
- The potential for public relations to be used as a tool for corporate propaganda and media manipulation
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
The introduction provides a historical overview of public relations, tracing its roots back to the early 20th century. It highlights the evolving nature of public relations, from one-way communication to the need for bidirectional communication between companies and the public.
The chapter on "Public Relations - Definition" delves into the various interpretations of the term, acknowledging both its positive and negative connotations. It examines different perspectives on the role of public relations, from its potential for altruism and social responsibility to its use as a tool for corporate propaganda.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
Public relations, ethics, business ethics, media, audiences, PR practitioner, corporate propaganda, media manipulation, strategic management.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the dual nature of Public Relations?
PR is often seen either as an idealistic social tool for humanitarian communication or as a basic instrument for corporate propaganda and media manipulation.
Is Public Relations the same as propaganda?
The paper concludes that while PR can be used for manipulation, ethical PR aims to promote corporate interests while maintaining social responsibility and transparency.
What is the role of ethics in modern PR?
Ethics are crucial for maintaining a positive company image and ensuring the organization acts as a responsible part of society rather than just a source of material for the media.
How has PR evolved over the 20th century?
It has shifted from simple one-way communication to a need for bidirectional communication between companies and their various audiences.
What are the main criticisms of PR practitioners?
Critics often point to the potential for media manipulation, lack of transparency, and the prioritization of corporate interests over public truth.
- Quote paper
- Fotini Mastroianni (Author), 2013, Critical Public Relations. Contexts and Issues, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/365744
