This paper briefly summarizes evidence for the influence of popular films on public perception of government and on public policy. Two films examined through the lens of public administration, and the lessons they teach about public administration, are exposed. One film, Ghostbusters conveys a strongly negative image, and the other, A Thousand Heroes a strongly positive message. Only Ghostbusters was and remains popular and profitable. Public information efforts by government and the public administration community have been limited or reactive. The authors argue for the increased support for public information initiatives such as those of the Public Employees Roundtable (PER) and the American Society of Public Administration (ASPA).
Journalistic practice in risk and crisis situations: Significant examples from Spain
