Paradox in Public Relations: A Contrarian Critique of Theory and Practice

ISBN-13: 9781138671942 / Angielski / Twarda / 2020 / 166 str.

Kevin L. Stoker (Texas Tech University

Opis

The term "Public Relations" was embraced by early practitioners primarily because it sounded more professional than the often pejorative alternatives. Paradoxically, the term is replete with contradictory elements and now carries its own negative connotations. Looking through this lens of paradox, many of the well-intentioned ideals of modern PR theorizing are at best unrealistic and at worst logical fallacies. By failing to recognize and accept its inherent contradictions, the field inhibits the very change and progress which it constantly pursues. This book argues for a reframing of some of the popular realities associated with modern-day public relations, using psychological and organizational change theory to critique the paradoxes of public relations theory and practice. It explores the paradoxical nature of key concepts including public interest, relationship management, accountability, stewardship, authority , loyalty, and ethics providing new conceptualizations for understanding the field. The goal of this thought-provoking exploration is to promote changes in meaning and perception by creating new meta-realities for public relations. It will be of interest to public relations and communications scholars and graduate students, particularly those interested in public relations theory and ethics.

Spis treści

Introduction  1 Paradox in Public Relations  2 The Public Interest Paradox  3 The Relationship Paradox  4 The Symmetrical/Dialogue Paradox  5 The Accountability Paradox  6 The Loyalty Paradox  7 The Community Paradox  Index

O autorze

Kevin L. Stoker is Professor and Director of the Hank Greenspun School of Journalism and Media Studies at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. After eight years in professional journalism, he earned a Ph.D. from the University of Alabama and has since held faculty positions at the University of North Carolina–Greensboro, Georgia Southern University, Brigham Young University, and Texas Tech University.