Saw Morgan Spurlock's fast food diss, Super Size Me last night. A powerful piece of communication, that, much like Moore's Bush-bashing bingo 9/11, draws the audience in with the suggestion of it being a documentary.
As a super-sized fatty myself, although a KFC rather than a Mc devotee, I felt the fire in my belly expand with rage at recognizing myself in the story. Even as a savvy marketeer I find myself seduced by fast-food promotions.
Those of us who handle Public Affairs should take a long, hard view at all of the truth relating to our clients. Hearing the hapless PA man in the movie trying to focus attention on the good education provided by the food industry instead of acknowledging the pitfalls; while at the same time stressing issues of self determination and free choice.
Perhaps we can ensure our clients benefit from the PR shine, while at the same time, we encourage our clients to also do the right thing. I believe that we have this power - and a responsibility that comes with it too.