With the professionalisation of journalism in the early 20th century came a more detached style of reporting.

ECONOMIST: Impartiality

He says the changes are not just about cuts - but about professionalisation, modern training, equipment and cutting bureaucracy.

BBC: Police cuts: Why officers are taking to the streets

But nobody was so out-of-step with the increasing professionalisation of contemporary American politics.

ECONOMIST: A death that impoverishes the Senate

There are many other areas where Nato believes it could provide assistance to Russia - on professionalisation and downsizing for example - but will wait until Russia asks.

BBC: Analysis: Nato and Russia draw closer

If they are wise, today's business leaders and educators will see it is in their enlightened self-interest to take the goal of professionalisation seriously, and thus start to regain society's trust.

ECONOMIST: Do bosses need their own Hippocratic Oath?