Why PR is seen as synonym for propaganda?

I notice that David Brain, President and CEO, Edelman Europe has passed comment on his blog about who he would prefer to be the talking head for the PR industry.

“No disrespect to Mark Borkowski or Max Clifford, but I’m so much more comfortable having the industry represented by a character who is as good on presentation and personality as he is on content on the big issues of the day.”

Mr Brain obviously was impressed by Colin Byrne’s performance on Question Time last night. I revere and admire Colin, an operator that has a proven ability and track record, a true pro.

Mr Brain feels that I am no more than a frivolous sound bite merchant, I suppose I should be pleased that I have passed the CEO’s radar, as I am not one to inhabit some of the darker corridors of power that he stalks. Perhaps this luminary would rather that I didn’t draw attention to some of the interesting work his company undertakes globally. The mighty John Stauber on the other hand does have an interesting take on Edelman. http://www.prwatch.org/node/3666

I was told this week by another PR spook that I should consider some of my principals. The twat concluded that if I was less principled I might make a lot more dough. OK hands up, I might not have always got it right in my choice of clients, but at least my articles in the broadsheets on the industry might prick the conscience of the grey suits. Rather than focussing on ethics, far too many of them enjoy fellating corporate dick to achieve profits for global media groups