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Journal Article 4.1: Weaver, C. K. (2016). A Marxist primer for critical public relations scholarship. Media International Australia, 160(1), 43-52.

Abstract: Critical public relations which has its foundations in critical social enquiry has developed extensively as a subset of public relations research and theorizing. Surprisingly, however, given the profound influence that Karl Marx’s writings had on the evolution of critical theory, there has been minimal discussion of how Marxist criticism might contribute to our understanding and theorizing of public relations. At a time when capitalism is regarded by many as “in crisis,” this article explores the value of applying a Marxist analysis to the study of public relations in the 21st century. It examines how key Marxist concepts can be applied to theorizing public relations, and how these concepts provide insights into the social, political, and economic structures that public relations works to maintain.

Journal Article 4.2: Wardeman-Winter, J., Tindall, N., & Jiang, H. (2013). Intersectionality and publics: How exploring publics’ multiple identities questions basic public relations concepts. Public Relations Inquiry, 2(3), 279-304.

Abstract: As a descriptive theory, intersectionality refers to individuals’ interdependent and simultaneous identities that affect how publics confront issues. In this article, we introduce an intersectional approach to publics that complements current segmentation strategies with publics. This article complements early efforts to study multiple identities by expanding the possibilities and realities of accessing and analyzing intersectionality within our intellectual and practical discipline. Also, this article attempts to make apparent possible taken-for-granted assumptions in the research and campaign design process. This approach helps researchers and practitioners to better understand the sociopolitical contexts of public relations communication relationships that lead to the construction of identities.

Journal Article 4.3: Maier, C. T. (2015). Public relations as humane conversation: Richard rorty, stakeholder theory, and public relations practice. Public Relations Inquiry, 4(1), 25-39.

Abstract: While R Edward Freeman’s stakeholder theory has become one of the most generative contemporary management theories and has shaped the public relations lexicon, its influence on public relations theory and practice has been muted. In this essay, I use the work of the American pragmatist philosopher Richard Rorty to resituate Freeman’s theory and offer a vision of public relations practice that is grounded in what can be called humane conversation. After describing both the promise and limitations of stakeholder theory, I provide an overview of Rorty’s philosophical project and describe potential points of contact with Freeman’s theory. Then, I suggest how this encounter can frame a new understanding of public relations grounded in Rorty’s notions of contingency, irony, and solidarity, in which scholars, professionals, and students learn to see themselves as humane intellectuals in the fullest sense of the term.