Today I have read the PRSA (Public Relations Society of America) Code of Ethics and would like to briefly summarize it.

In the preamble, PRSA states that they view ethics as their number one responsibility. It is clear they are committed to operating ethically.

The body of the code of ethics is a about the professional values of PRSA members and of the public relations profession. The foundation of the code of ethics is formed by the following values: advocacy, honesty, expertise, independence, loyalty, and fairness. PRSA considers these values to be what holds the honor of this profession together.

PRSA considers the free flow of information to be extremely important for two reasons. The first reason is “to maintain the integrity of relationships with the media, government officials, and the public.” Additionally, the free flow of information is important because of the need to have knowledgeable decision-making.

PRSA believes healthy competition among public relations professionals to be a core principle as well. This is because they believe it is important to have an array of practitioner options so the public interest is catered to.

They also said, “Open communication fosters informed decision making in a democratic society.” This is important to form trust with the public by showing all the information appropriate for decision-making.

PRSA goes on to talk about safeguarding confidences, conflicts of interest and enhancing the profession. They go on to say how they are core principles as well and how they connect to the foundation of their ethics.

At the end of the Code of Ethics, PRSA provides a pledge for those in the public relations profession to choose to agree to and abide by.