Question 1

It is more ethical for the public relations counselor to say "no comment" to a difficult question,than to stretch the truth for organizational gain.

Accepted Answer

It is generally considered more ethical for a public relations counselor to decline to comment on a difficult question rather than providing false information or stretching the truth for the organization's benefit. This approach maintains the counselor's and the organization's credibility and upholds ethical standards.

Question 2

Society expects public relations practitioners to take on a role differentiation,as an advocate (as journalists would be considered objective).

Accepted Answer

Society does expect public relations practitioners to take on a role differentiation and act as advocates for their clients or organizations. This is different from the role of journalists, who are expected to maintain objectivity and impartiality in their reporting.

Question 3

In order to be a professional adviser for PRSSA,one must have the "APR" designation by being accredited.Please detail the pros and cons of this policy,if this is a restrictive policy,and in what cases should the policy be modified.

Accepted Answer

The answer of In order to be a professional adviser...

Question 4

The licensing of public relations professionals is likely to be initiated in the near future.

Accepted Answer

There is no widespread movement or consensus among professionals or regulatory bodies to initiate licensing for public relations professionals, as PR is often governed by industry standards and ethical guidelines rather than formal licensing.

Question 5

Of PRSA's core ethical values of public relations (advocacy,honesty,expertise,independence,loyalty,and fairness),which do you believe is the most important value to practitioners,and why? Also,which one is "least valued" and/or ignored by the profession? Explain.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Of PRSA's core ethical values of public...

Question 6

Although gift giving is considered unethical in the United States,other nations have different standards.

Accepted Answer

Gift giving may be considered unethical or even illegal in certain situations in the United States, such as in the context of bribery or conflicts of interest in business or politics. However, in other countries and cultures, gift giving is often a common and expected practice in social, business, or diplomatic relationships.

Question 7

Fairness is a core value stipulated by PRSA.

Accepted Answer

Fairness is indeed a core value stipulated by PRSA (Public Relations Society of America). It is one of the values that should guide the conduct of communication professionals in their interactions with clients, stakeholders, media, and the public. Other core values include honesty, integrity, transparency, and respect.

Question 8

In terms of gender,PRSA's membership is now primarily male

Accepted Answer

According to PRSA's 2020 membership report, the gender breakdown is 67% female and 33% male. Therefore, the statement is false.

Question 9

Magazines,in particular,are increasingly blurring the line between news features and advertisements.

Accepted Answer

This statement is true. Magazines are known for blurring the line between news features and advertisements by using sponsored content, native advertising, and other promotional materials that may not be immediately recognizable as advertisements to readers. This practice has been criticized for potentially misleading readers and compromising the integrity of the journalism profession.

Question 10

According to a utilitarian approach,the ends justify the means as long as they cause the least harm.

Accepted Answer

Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that focuses on maximizing overall happiness or pleasure while minimizing suffering or pain. According to this theory, actions are morally right if they result in the greatest amount of good for the greatest number of people. Therefore, if the ends justify the means and the overall net result is the least amount of harm, then the action is considered ethical in a utilitarian approach.

Question 11

Virtually all public relations codes of ethics begin with the duty to tell the truth.

Accepted Answer

This statement is true. The duty to tell the truth is typically one of the fundamental principles of public relations codes of ethics.

Question 12

To become accredited by the PRSA with the designation of "APR," one must have at least 10 years of experience in the field and have demonstrated some significant achievements.

Accepted Answer

While having 10 years of experience is recommended, it is not required. To become accredited by the PRSA with the designation of "APR," one must successfully complete an examination, submit a portfolio showcasing their work, and participate in an interview with a panel of APRs.

Quiz 3: Ethics and Professionalism