"Rethinking Public Relations second edition builds on the first edition with new thoughts, data and evidence presented in an accessible style. It develops thinking on the most important question facing PR today - its relationship with democracy - and finds a balance of advantages and disadvantages which leaves a residue of concern. The text sustains the view that PR is weak propaganda and argues that the most effective way to counter its negative effects is for all organisations and groups to have an effective PR 'voice', so that all can be heard and then supported or rejected by the public. Moreover, these 'voices' have to be scrutinised in a PR-saturated society by a more independent and competitive media, and by PR-wary citizens and consumers." "This exciting new edition challenges the conventional thinking about public relations and expands and updates the arguments put forward in the previous edition. It is designed to appeal to final-year undergraduates, postgraduates and all those with an interest in public relations."--BOOK JACKET.