Trading places: an in-depth analysis of entertainment public relations practices within different socio-economic contexts

2015-08-05The public relations discipline is one that is difficult to narrowly define. Through the years, professional associations and individual experts alike have proposed and continue to modify its meaning, tweaking it to align with progressive contexts. This rings even more true when the function of the discipline is considered within different political, socio-economic environments. While public relations in the United States has come a long way, it falls short in the implementation of established standards and best practices in third world countries. ❧ Using the United States and Nigeria as case studies, this paper will analyze the public relations practice and its nuances within specific political and socio-economic contexts. To relay a coherent narrative, it will draw examples from the entertainment industry as a very visible and attention-holding territory in which the discipline is practiced. ❧ Interjecting secondary research analysis with insights from in-depth interviews from industry professionals, the paper will examine the development of the public relations discipline historically, to explore industry milestones and the external forces that fostered them. ❧ Finally, the paper will suggest methods for public relations practitioners in developing countries such as Nigeria, to key into standards and best practices for the growth and development of the trade worldwide