Comments on the “Excellence Theory”
I could not help myself. I had to get involved in the discussion taking place at PR Conversations. And, Jim Grunig responded. If you’re interested, take a look.
I was even accused *GASP* of displaying an “unpleasant tone.”
Feel free to jump in too, either at the original or at PR-Bridge.
September 20th, 2008 at 14:04
You and your unpleasant tone!
It is definitely a good conversation.
September 20th, 2008 at 14:09
Hi Jessica, the conversation sounds a lot like class, huh? Someone in the discussion mentions that a great theory is foundational, not the final word. I think that is the biggest challenge. Grunig’s supporters see it as the final word, which probably isn’t his fault. I think we as an academic profession could do more with developing the field.
And, if PR people can be activists, wouldn’t it be smart to work closely with marketing, in some way co-opting their power?
September 21st, 2008 at 10:14
Bob, I agree with many of your points, although I don’t have an extended PR experience, as you have. I’m guided by my knowledge, extensive reading and intuition.
I have just written a blog post about the discussion, where I summarised my main points, please, feel free to add your comments. However, as I posted it, I started thinking, could it be that we all are talking about the same things, but are using different terminology? Or am I so in the dark after studing PR on Master level for 18 months?
September 22nd, 2008 at 13:40
Yes, it definitely sounds a lot like class. It seems like many of the comments made throughout the discussion are trying to be the final word and like you said a great theory is NOT final.
You already know I agree with you about working closely with marketing. I have seen examples where it does not happen and the results are bad. It just makes the company look disconnected or in shambles.