One woman - Two sides of the Same Coin? Journalism and Public relations: The case of Bertha von Suttner, Austria

Abstract

This article demonstrates the relationship between journalism and public relations in the case of Bertha von Suttner (1843–1914) from Austria, Nobel Peace Prize Laureate in 1905. Based on a literature review, the research in this article sheds light on both journalism and public relations in the late nineteenth century in view of this story of an extraordinary woman. Starting with the idea that Bertha von Suttner was not only a renowned journalist and writer, but also a propagandist for peace and women's rights, this paper notes that journalism and public relations are not just two sides of the same coin but, particularly in view of campaigns, can stand side by side for a cause. As well as a theoretical discussion, the contribution highlights the instruments utilised by Bertha von Suttner to fight for peace and equality. Furthermore, the results outline some perspectives, which logically illustrate that both journalism and public relations are based on the same intentions regarding campaigning. Due to this, journalism and public relations merge into one activism field.