We live in a self-consciously plain-spoken political era. But Orwell’s
advice, ironically, has not elevated the substance of debate; it has merely
helped the political class to avoid the subject more skilfully. The art of spin
is not (quite) supplanting truth with lies. It aspires to replace awkward
complexities with catchy simplicity. Successful spin does not leave the effect
of skilful persuasiveness; it creates the impression of unavoidable common
sense. Hence the artifice becomes invisible – just as a truly charming person is
considered nice rather than “charming”.
- Ed Smith
- Ed Smith
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