Managing intractability: Wrestling with wicked problems and seeing beyond consensus in public relations

Managing perceived intractable problems—seemingly irrevocable, difficult-to-solve, often values-driven conflicts—is a regular occurrence for public relations practitioners. Yet, understanding and managing such problems is outside of the bounds theories aimed primarily at building consensus. This paper builds on existing conflict-centered literature by carving out place dissensus-oriented or agonistic practices. Through interviews with 41 practitioners facing scenarios integration dissensual perspectives Lyotard (1984), Rancière (2010), others, provides evidence these approaches in everyday practice. Finally, it offers framework social issue engagement that orients dissensus-minded professional practices alongside consensus approaches.