ABSTRACT
Public relations is done today in the UK by more interests, causes and people than ever before; yet it suffers from a low reputation. This is an extraordinary irony: that PR has to endure the fate that it seeks to avoid for those in whose name it works. Say 'PR>~ and not far away from mind and mouth are concerns about the manipulation of opinion, the promotion of the rich and powerful, the one-sided presentation of fact and figure. Why is this? Because PR is a propaganda tool?2 Because it is a hidden persuader? Because it undermines elected representatives and neutral civil servants? Because it sells fresh fruit and pension policies? Because it is puffery and not worth respect? Who holds these opinions? How do PR people react? Are there benefits to PR? Does it matter that PR is held in low opinion? If it does matter, what can be done?
