New book review by Kristian H. Nielsen: "Book review: Public Relations and Neoliberalism: The Language Practices of Knowledge Formation"
Public Understanding of Science, OnlineFirst (11 December 2023)
Abstract
This book adopts a sharply critical stance towards public relations (PR), framing it as a form of discourse synonymous with disinformation and deceptive messaging. It delineates the ideological connections between PR, the deliberate cultivation of uncertainty by industry lobbyists and scientific consultants, and neoliberalism – a doctrine underpinned by beliefs in market efficiency, deregulation and an enlarged role for the private sector within the economy.