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Western European Perspectives on the Development of Public Relations: Other Voices

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Abstract

The chapter distinguishes between occupational and societal approaches to British public relations (PR) history and reviews a range of literature that explores socio-cultural, religious and political influences. Reference is made to international and national political change (conflict, colonialism, decolonization), and its effects on the communications of politicians, policy-makers and government administrators in a democratic context. Attention is paid to the diffusion of communications practices in corporate contexts, such as utilities, and increased business awareness of the importance of political lobbying. The formation of a professional body in 1948 is noted, along with some discussion of its ambition for professional status for the occupation in the face of critical opposition from journalists.

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Authors
  1. Jacquie L’Etang
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Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Faculty of Media & Communication, Bournemouth University, UK

    Tom Watson (Professor of Public Relations) (Professor of Public Relations)

Copyright information

© 2015 Jacquie L’Etang

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L’Etang, J. (2015). United Kingdom. In: Watson, T. (eds) Western European Perspectives on the Development of Public Relations: Other Voices. National Perspectives on the Development of Public Relations. Palgrave Pivot, London. https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137427519_11

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