Myth of symmetry: Public relations as cultural styles

Abstract

The paper suggests that the idea of public relations, once regarded as a-theoretical, is actually more a-historical. The history of public relations has been either ignored or distorted, due in part to the theory of symmetry that confuses the science of evolution with a belief in evolution. Symmetry theory has both caused and resulted in historical distortions like the inflated historical significance of P.T. Barnum, and ethical oversimplifications like the dissociation of public relations from propaganda. As a corrective, this paper offers an alternative, cultural perspective. Expanding upon the critical historiography of J.W. O’Malley, a religious historian, public relations is reframed as cultural styles that reflect distinctive historical sensibilities, as well as manners of perception and expression.