Question 1

If you were asked by a client to promote their upcoming special event as "the greatest and most exciting event they will ever attend," you would call this ______.

Accepted Answer

This is considered puffery, a promotional statement or claim that is subjective, not meant to be taken literally, and used to hype up a product or event. It's a common marketing practice and is not considered false advertising.

Question 2

When taking on a controversial client, organization, or brand, one should remember that ______.

Accepted Answer

Taking on a controversial client can lead to your reputation being associated with that client, impacting how others view you or your business.

Question 3

Why is it important to know something about ethical practices in other countries?

Accepted Answer

Understanding ethical practices in other countries is crucial due to the increasing interconnectivity and globalization of the world. This knowledge helps in navigating international relations, collaborations, and business practices effectively.

Question 4

You are a managing partner at a PR agency. You have just learned that one of your financial clients has committed a major ethical violation, so you must end the relationship. Your actions here need to be both ______ and ______.

Accepted Answer

C) direct; immediate. Ending the relationship due to an ethical violation requires clear and prompt action to maintain the integrity and reputation of the PR agency.

Question 5

When we work to be honest and fair to all of our audiences, we are ______.

Accepted Answer

Setting a strong ethical example involves being honest and fair to all audiences, which reflects integrity and ethical conduct in professional and personal settings.

Question 6

As important as public relations ethics are, scholars disagree on how to define them.

Accepted Answer

Public relations ethics are a complex and debated topic among scholars, leading to disagreements on how to precisely define them due to varying perspectives on ethical principles and their application in public relations practice.

Question 7

According to recent studies on public relations education, graduates are well prepared to deal with ethical challenges.

Accepted Answer

Recent studies on public relations education have shown that while graduates may have theoretical knowledge, many feel unprepared for the practical ethical challenges they face in the workforce.

Question 8

The PRSA Code of Ethics is enforceable by fines and imprisonment.

Accepted Answer

The PRSA (Public Relations Society of America) Code of Ethics serves as a guideline for professional conduct but does not have the legal authority to enforce fines or imprisonment for violations.

Question 9

According to PRSA, advocacy means providing a voice in the marketplace of ideas.

Accepted Answer

According to the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), advocacy is indeed about providing a voice in the marketplace of ideas, facts, and viewpoints to aid informed public debate.

Question 10

When in doubt about ethics, it is OK to deviate from the code.

Accepted Answer

Ethical codes are designed to provide guidance and establish standards of conduct. Deviating from them, especially in situations of doubt, can lead to unethical decisions and actions.

Question 11

The Page Principles are specifically tailored to corporate relations.

Accepted Answer

The Page Principles are guidelines developed by the Arthur W. Page Society, focusing on corporate communication and public relations.

Question 12

If you find yourself in a work culture that does not promote ethical behavior, the best course of action is to ride it out and hope the employer changes.

Accepted Answer

Remaining passive in an unethical work environment can perpetuate the problem and potentially harm your professional reputation and mental health. It's important to address concerns, seek support, and consider all options, including finding a new job if the situation does not improve.

Question 13

When faced with an ethical dilemma, the best response may not be clear.

Accepted Answer

Ethical dilemmas often present complex situations where the best course of action is not immediately obvious, requiring careful consideration of moral principles and potential outcomes.

Question 14

Public relations students need to learn more about law than they currently do.

Accepted Answer

Understanding law is crucial for public relations students because it helps them navigate legal issues related to media, copyright, defamation, and privacy, which are integral to their future profession.

Question 15

Libel may be either a spoken or printed falsehood.

Accepted Answer

Libel refers specifically to a printed or published falsehood, whereas spoken falsehoods are classified as slander.

Question 16

There is essentially no difference between deception and puffery.

Accepted Answer

Deception involves making false or misleading claims about a product or service, intending to trick consumers. Puffery, on the other hand, is the use of exaggerated or vague statements that no reasonable person would take literally and is considered legal and a common marketing practice.

Question 17

Ethical principles are not universal. Different countries may practice their own sets of PR ethics.

Accepted Answer

Ethical principles can vary significantly across different cultures and countries, leading to diverse practices in public relations ethics based on local norms, values, and legal frameworks.

Question 18

When you are facing an ethical challenge, there should be no gray area in your communications.

Accepted Answer

Clear and honest communication is essential when addressing ethical challenges, ensuring that intentions and decisions are understood without ambiguity.

Question 19

Recall a recent ethical dilemma you have faced at work or in a professional situation. What are some helpful questions you could ask yourself to deal with this dilemma?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Recall a recent ethical dilemma you have...

Question 20

Explain what ethics are and how they apply to ethical conduct.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Explain what ethics are and how they...

Quiz 3: Ethics and the Law