Sejarah Public Relations: Nadia Wasta Utami, S.I.Kom., M.A (Komunikita Eps. 63)

Summary

The video script delves into the history and development of public relations (PR), tracing its origins back to ancient Babylonia and Sumer. It discusses the evolution from early propaganda methods to the modern practice, highlighting key figures like Ivy Lee and his 'Declaration of Principle' that shifted PR towards a more ethical approach. The script also explores PR's growth in Indonesia, influenced by political changes and the introduction of multinational companies. It concludes with the definition of PR as a strategic communication process that builds and maintains relationships, emphasizing its role in government, business, and politics.

Takeaways

• 🌐 Public relations (PR) activities, or proto-public relations, can be traced back to ancient civilizations like Babylonia and Sumer, around 3000 years ago.
• 🗣️ The term 'public relations' began to be recognized in the 19th century, with the rise of 'publicists' known for their promotional tactics.
• 🎪 P.T. Barnum, a circus owner, is noted for his unethical promotional strategies, such as hiring fake spectators and spreading rumors to attract attention to his circus.
• 📰 The early 1900s saw the birth of modern PR practices, with Ivy Lee, a former journalist, being recognized as a founding father of the profession.
• 📜 Ivy Lee's approach to PR was revolutionary, focusing on transparency and providing accurate information to the public, rather than manipulation.
• 📜 His 'Declaration of Principles' is a historical milestone in PR, advocating for honesty and accuracy in communications, shifting the industry away from mere press agentry.
• 🌏 In Indonesia, PR or 'humas' became significant during the country's struggle for independence, with the government using PR to inform the public about developments.
• 🏢 The practice of PR in Indonesia evolved with the political climate, with different administrations having varying approaches to public communication.
• 📈 The Reform Era in Indonesia saw a significant growth in PR practices, with the introduction of academic programs and certification bodies for PR professionals.
• 📘 The Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) defines PR as a management function, emphasizing the importance of effective communication and relationship-building with publics.

Q & A

What is the origin of the term 'public relations'?

The term 'public relations' has its roots in the activities of the 19th century in the United States and the UK, where it was initially referred to as 'publishes' or 'publicists', particularly between 1810 and 1891.

How did public relations practices begin?

Public relations practices began with proto-public relations activities dating back to 3000 years ago in ancient Babylonia and Sumer, where merchants used inscriptions to persuade and manipulate people.

Who is considered a founding father of public relations?

Ivy Lee, a former journalist, is considered a founding father of public relations. He was recruited by a coal company in 1906 to handle a strike situation and introduced new practices that were more transparent and based on facts.

What was the significance of Ivy Lee's 'Declaration of Principle' in the development of public relations?

Ivy Lee's 'Declaration of Principle' was a significant milestone in the history of public relations as it marked a shift from press agentry and manipulation to a more ethical practice based on facts and transparency.

How did the practice of public relations evolve in the early 20th century?

In the early 20th century, public relations evolved from mere publicity and manipulation to a practice that aimed to inform the public with accurate information, as influenced by the 'Declaration of Principle'.

What role did public relations play in the United States during the early 1900s?

In the early 1900s, public relations in the United States was used by various industries, including entertainment and essential services like automotive and transportation, to attract customers and manage their public image.

How did the concept of public relations enter Indonesia?

Public relations, known as 'humas' in Indonesia, started to be recognized during the preparation for Indonesia's independence, where the government worked hard to ensure a smooth proclamation and public awareness.

What was the state of public relations in Indonesia during the New Order era?

During the New Order era in Indonesia, public relations practices were not optimal due to the authoritarian government system, which resulted in one-way communication and limited public relations activities.

How has the practice of public relations changed in Indonesia since the Reform era?

Since the Reform era, public relations in Indonesia has seen significant development with the change in government systems, leading to more open and two-way communication practices and the emergence of public relations education and certification.

What are the four roles of public relations as defined by the Public Relations Society of America?

According to the Public Relations Society of America, public relations serves four roles: to inform the public (communication), to counsel organizations (advisory), to involve the public (engagement), and to act as a change agent (influencing).

How is the term 'humas' used in Indonesia in relation to public relations?

In Indonesia, 'humas' is commonly used to refer to public relations within government bodies and is often associated with the role of public information dissemination and customer service.