Public Relations: reasons for practicing them

Abstract

This article discusses Public Relations as a communication management function and its roles in the organization. It questions whether Public Relations are a science or the practice of an art form, the fact that its definition is still difficult to comprehend, and discusses the problems that lead to the practical differences for its practice in Latin America, in the European nations and in North America. The article closes with a discussion of some of the major elements that legitimate a profession, going beyond its concept as a science or an art.