Public Relations and Society (HIRE304)
This course investigates the roots of public relations in the social theories of European thinkers such as Gustave Le Bon and the way in which these theories were enthusiastically applied by the early pioneers of PR such as: Ivy Lee and Edward Bernays. A short history of PR is followed by a chapter covering the components and the models of PR. The link between PR professionals and political interests is examined and students explore the modern responsibilities of PR professionals. The cultural, economic and political forces that have led to the recent growth in the importance of marketing public relations are also covered. This course helps students to understand how society benefits from the PR practices. Also, the role of power in public relations and the use of public relations by non- corporate perspective will be determined. Besides the micro-level outcomes of the process of public relations which provides the definition and constitution of PR, the macro-level which focuses on the impact of public relations on society by influencing laws, values and other actions will be explored. Moreover the students study at the ethical implications of PR, the global effects of PR and the impact of social media in PR practices.