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I will be discussing question number 1 for the Unit Two Writing Assignment - Explain the similarities and differences between public relations and propaganda. When you ask an average citizen what they thinks about this topic, they may tell you that they are one and the same, they both lie. Even though the words have been wrongly used, and with the dictionary definitions being so similar, it is often difficult to differentiate between the two if you don't really take your time to consider what makes them distinct from one another.

An enormous part of Strategic Communications is really understanding what makes Public Relations and Propaganda so different. Both of them do their best to change the public's perception and impact them. And, as hard as it may seem to differentiate between the two, what really makes them different is the truth and validity of their contents.

Propaganda on one hand, can be defined as the deliberate and systematic attempt to shape perceptions, manipulate cognitions and direct behavior to achieve a response that furthers the desired intent of the propagandist. Jowett and O'Donnell (1992)

On the other hand, Public Relations is the planned and sustained efforts to establish and maintain goodwill and understanding between an organization and its publics. UK Institute of Public Relations (1987).

When looked at, truly, both are quite similar with just a major difference between them being their intent and reason behind their usage. They both share similar purpose, and from the above definitions, it can be deduced that both Public Relations and Propaganda, both have the same purpose, which is to influence the way the public view something or someone in order to garner a desired response from them. Both can be said to be related to advertising. Both Public Relations and Propaganda seeks to shape public perceptions and influence their opinions by using mass media. They are both directed at specific people at a time. And, even though the actions differ greatly, both Public Relations and Propaganda are both deemed successful only when at the end of the day, they are both able to instigate people to take their desired actions.

With all the similarities between their functions and delivery methods, Propaganda is typically used in a more negative nature. It is often used to damage an opposing cause, in order to further the success of another cause. The information and content it often uses are most times not based on truth, twisting information in order to better its own success, giving little to no regard to its audience. It uses lies, half-truths, smears, rhetoric and a whole arsenal of bad things to influence the public's opinion on their cause, be it an ideal or a political agenda, which is most often the cause.

Public Relations, instead, takes the information and molds it in such a way that it is seen in a positive light for all parties involved. There is no word twisting or information doctoring. All contents disseminated are very valid and authentic, as their claims can be checked. It encourages two-way communications, so they can better serve their customers.

In communications, both the Public Relations and Propaganda are power tools. And, even though they have very similar definitions, their differences lie in their intent and the amount of truth that can be found in them. Most people often misuse both and mix them up, which is why it is important to educate on the both topics.