The Open Communication Journal

2007, 1 : 9-13
Published online 2007 December 31. DOI: 10.2174/1874916X00701010009
Publisher ID: TOCOMMJ-1-9

The Scientific Method in Public Relations: A Dialectic Approach

Jordi Xifra
Faculty of Tourism and Communication, Pujada dels Alemanys, 4, Girona, 17071, Spain.

ABSTRACT

Based on the assertion that public relations is an applied social science, this article will attempt, by means of hypothetical and deductive methodology, to demonstrate the importance of the scientific method in public relations. After identifying the social reality which is the object of study of public relations, the author highlights the need to deduce how the scientist can comprehend this reality, or in other words, the channels that should be used in attaining this understanding. The method itself enables a better understanding of the results of scientific research as well as allowing a clearer understanding of the very process of research. In this way, the dialectic method is the most appropriate for public relations scientists.

Keywords:

Public relations theory, social science research, methodology of social sciences.