Spinning

In public relations, spin is a usually derogative term that represents a sometimes strongly biased portrayal in one’s own perspective of an event or situation. While traditional public relations may rely on creatively presenting facts, “spin” usually, implies deceptive and/or highly manipulative tactics.

Because of the frequent association between “spin” and press conferences (especially government press conferences), the room in which these take place is sometimes described as a spin room.

• Presenting facts selectively and/or quotes selected to support ones position, especially when a quote is taken out of context of how it was said. This is done to unduly influence and supports one’s position.

• Non-denial denial – a means by which to avoid speaking about a truth or fact by means of deception that entails evasive speech.

• Phrasing in a way that assumes unproven truths – using the subtlety of connotation in speech in order to unduly influence a presentation of statement in favor of ones bias.

• Euphemisms to disguise or promote one’s agenda – a means by which a speaker uses a less offensive word or phrase in order to avoid offending the listener.

Other spin techniques involve delaying the release of bad news so it can be buried by other news or ameliorated by time.

Spin Doctors are people that practice spin in favor of the bias of their perspective as either dictated or requested by the people or group they may represent.