Public Relations

Modern public relations emerged in the early 20th century as a response to the expanding role of mass communication in mobilizing and influencing public opinion. Several factors, such as Progressive Era political, social, and moral reforms and government war propaganda, combined to institutionalize and normalize the act of influencing and changing public opinion. After more than a century, public relations has evolved into a profession that includes public affairs, crisis communication, issues and reputation management, lobbying, investor relations, media relations, community relations, social media management, and corporate communication. The definition of public relations also has changed over the years from making things known and relations with the public to strategically building and managing mutually beneficial relationships with publics critical to organizational success. Every organization, whether ...