Public affairs and communications management

"I am currently studying for my CIPR diploma in Public Relations. Throughout the course we have looked at crisis planning, international communications and corporate social responsibility among others, however one of the key debates that I found fascinating is the role that PR plays in a democracy. The debate focuses around the argument that PR is only representative of those who can afford it and thus not of society as a whole, however I would argue that the Public Relations' industry plays a vital role in the workings of a democracy.

For the democratic process to flourish, society must be open and able to constantly challenge its assumptions and values. Anne Gregory, professor of Public Relations at Leeds Metropolitan University, claims that the practice of public relations brings to the general public, debate of all kinds of "ideas and represents all shades of opinion". In order for the public to make up their minds, they must have access to both sides of the argument and this is where the PR practitioner plays their vital role. The public relations industry helps governments, businesses and charities articulate their arguments so that they may provide informed citizens with the knowledge they need to make relevant choices.

For Gregory democracy is about enlightened citizens making educated choices. The public are able to make up their minds once they have had both sides of an argument explained to them, perhaps by PR practitioners from opposing camps. This discourse helps to build a community and potentially to resolve conflict. I believe it promotes discussion within society and the political arena and therefore is very much part of the democratic process. Citizens are kept informed of opposing views and thus are able to make informed decisions. It is my belief that public relations and the role of new technology in social media also have the ability to reinvigorate civil society and help individuals to re-engage with politics."