Students have to major in a particular type of journalism for example radio journalism, advertising, etc. Radio speech is not what one may assume it is just a higher speech course. In nearly 50 decades later the controversy of what should be taught to PR students are still an issue, why? because the world has evolved and so has the roles for PR practitioners. Looking at the history of PR practitioners and the recognized public relation professional historical figure, what background skills led them to such success? Edward L. Bernay, Doris Fleischman, and Harold Burson, are three influential PR practitioners that impacted the field of public relations. Their skills and qualifications will be observed to see how their education helped shape success in public relations. Edward L. Bernay was considered the “father of public relations” during the late 1800 and early 1900s. Bernay graduated fron Cornell University with a bachelor 's degree in agriculture, but chose journalism as his career. It is interesting that the degree he obtained is not …show more content…
Bernay opened an office of which he gave himself title as a public relations counselor in NY. He served on the U.S. committee of public information, which was an agency was built to influence the public’s opinion concerning the participation of Americans in WWI. It can be concluded that his job in journalism helped land this position. His progression in writing from his occupations lead to him publishing in a countless number of books, including one of his most influential book, Propaganda. Bernay transition to the focus of public persuasion using psychology and sociology. This emergence resulted from his close research with his uncle, Sigmund Freud, the famous neurologist who developed the concept of psychoanalysis. Bernay became obsessed with the theory that by understanding the minds of a group, it is possible to manipulate people’s behavior without their realization. Bernay soon became considered as a philanthropist, combining a traditional press agency with the techniques of psychology and sociology. Considering Bernay’s education and success a conclusion can be drawn that a degree in public relations was not urged and maybe not even necessary during this time period. Major experience in writing was the most important skill needed; the skill of persuading an audience with psychology and sociology was also required. Extensive researching was highly important also. In 1955,