Activity #1:

Think about any times when you thought certain ads or public relations initiatives were not being completely straightforward. Then,watch these YouTube two commercialsfrom ExxonMobile and BP:

Respond to this question for activity 1

1.Research the oil spill records of these two companies, then answer this question:

A)Do you think these ads follow the PRSA Code of Ethics?

b)How do the advertisements make it seem as if these companies behave in a fair and reasonable manner?

Activity #2:

Alternatively, consider completing this activity.

Another important issue is whether the businesses that can purchase commercials on TV, magazines, and billboards drown out the voices of people and organizations with less money but valid messages.

Respond to these questions for Activity #2:

1. When we think about "commercial" media-and its most specifically targeted messages through PR or advertising-whose viewpoints get heard and who is ignored?If a democracy relies upon the competition of ideas, whose ideas are being heard?