Communication has become the technology of public interest, demanding a re-examination of the key concept of public in both public relations and communication theory. This book defines a new concept of public interest communication, combining the conflict, negotiation and adaptation inherent in public interest, with a critical approach to communication management and public relations. Combining conceptual discussions about public theories of language with the tension between the public and private interests for public relations professionals, the book uses case studies to explore the negotiation of conflicting interests and the construction of the public interest within systems of governance at local, national and international levels. Public interest communication is identified within social and cultural contexts that resonate globally - health, community, media and the environment - each representing interest conflicts within the changing global environment. Addressing the forces of fragmentation, inequality and individualisation that characterize the modern world, this thought-provoking volume will be of great interest to researchers and advanced students of communication, public relations, environmental communication, public communication, and public policy.

This new text for students and practitioners in public relations has been built on the acclaimed Critical Perspectives in Public Relations, also edited by Jacquie L'Etang and Magda Pieczka, which is no longer in print. Many of the liveliest minds on the public relations scene have contributed fresh ideas and diverse perspectives: their locations on the margins, either geographically or intellectually, or both, allowed them to present a variety of compelling critiques. Contributors from Germany, Sweden, Spain, and Scotland join those from New Zealand and Australia in providing historical and political perspectives. Topics such as propaganda, religion, publics, expertise, transparency, and discourse are tackled in new and imaginative ways. The book challenges conventions but also provides essential empirical detail and careful argument. Practical relevance is also present through interdisciplinary discussion of public relations problems in sport, health, science, tourism, and documentary film. This important volume will stimulate debate about the boundaries, definitions, functions, and effects of public relations.

This new text for students and practitioners in public relations has been built on the acclaimed "Critical Perspectives in Public Relations, "also edited by Jacquie L'Etang and Magda Pieczka, which is no longer in print. Many of the liveliest minds on the public relations scene have contributed fresh ideas and diverse perspectives: their locations on the margins, either geographically or intellectually, or both, allowed them to present a variety of compelling critiques. Contributors from Germany, Sweden, Spain, and Scotland join those from New Zealand and Australia in providing historical and political perspectives. Topics such as propaganda, religion, publics, expertise, transparency, and discourse are tackled in new and imaginative ways.
The book challenges conventions but also provides essential empirical detail and careful argument. Practical relevance is also present through interdisciplinary discussion of public relations problems in sport, health, science, tourism, and documentary film. This important volume will stimulate debate about the boundaries, definitions, functions, and effects of public relations.

Communication has become the technology of public interest, demanding a re-examination of the key concept of public in both public relations and communication theory. This book defines a new concept of public interest communication, combining the conflict, negotiation and adaptation inherent in public interest, with a critical approach to communication management and public relations. Combining conceptual discussions about public theories of language with the tension between the public and private interests for public relations professionals, the book uses case studies to explore the negotiation of conflicting interests and the construction of the public interest within systems of governance at local, national and international levels. Public interest communication is identified within social and cultural contexts that resonate globally - health, community, media and the environment - each representing interest conflicts within the changing global environment. Addressing the forces of fragmentation, inequality and individualisation that characterize the modern world, this thought-provoking volume will be of great interest to researchers and advanced students of communication, public relations, environmental communication, public communication, and public policy.