framing vs. spin
The Rockridge Institute’s article “Framing versus Spin” explains some of differences between liberal linguist George Lakoff and conservative spinmeister Frank Luntz:
Where we shed light on the information masked by frames —presenting as many considerations to the public as we can, Luntz uses frames to mask information in the service of conservative ends. We use frame analysis to open the debate. Luntz uses frames to constrain and manipulate public discourse for the sake of Republican victories.[…]
Luntz spins and creates slogans to sell right-wing policy to the American public and to keep hidden agendas hidden. We examine and critique political framing to expose implicit values and agendas.
Using language and abusing it are two very different things, and it doesn’t take much effort to distinguish one from the other.