For better or worse, both Sex and the City and The Simpsons are integral components of our global culture. But which has more value to PR folks? Each examines imperative cultural issues and nobody can argue that both have instigated trends galore. But which offers more prescient and ultimately useful insight that we can use in our daily personal and professional endeavors? Which is contributing to the downward spiral of civilization and which is a source of inspiration, advice and even PR motivation?

The answer could surprise you.

In SATC, whining is a useful activity that makes life better. TS shows us that whining is a waste of time — life is hard; get over it.

The primary whiner on SATC is the wholly unbelievable Carrie, who has apparently made a career of this dark art. TS gives us Lisa, who whines when she is genuinely wronged. The lesson is simple: Whining is a waste of time and should be utilized sparingly.

Unfortunately, 20-somethings pay more attention to Carrie than Lisa, and as a result devote copious energy to whining about almost everything. Journalists, too, fall into this trap. As PR types, we need to remember — and remind our clients — that thought leadership is hard work and whining, while easy, is neither useful nor sexy.

SATC claims that living in New York is a generally comfy proposition, comprising weekends in the park and brunches in clean bistros with oh so superlative service…and that anyone who lives outside the city is lame. Residents of Springfield demo how flyover markets are invaluable.

As the 80% of Americans who live outside major metropolitan areas can attest (yes, 80%, according to Census), people with hearts, souls, class, and – dig this – wallets live in Springfield-like towns. TS shows us that middle America is not a wasteland, where American icons like Sting, Elvis C., David Byrne, Tito Puente, The Ramones and scores of others visit. My G-d, even Alec and Kim visited when they were together, sort of!

SATC tells young professionals to build their lives around sex. TS demonstrates the value of work and prospering internally.

Most of us do not have glamorous jobs writing columns (except me) and the occasional book (our man Laermer), organizing parties (well maybe), being lawyers (nope) or as professional wives (never). We PR dudes work awfully hard, just like Homer, Selma and Patty Bouvier, Moe Szyslak, Lionel Hutz, Edna Krabappel…even Burns. Our single PR pro brethren are lucky to make time for dinner — doh! Never mind dates and sex.

And Smithers, poor Smithers. See how he fails upward!

The heroines of SATC thrive on drama… the more, the better. TS characters do not need drama to be fascinating (and our best friends).

Ah, draaammmmaaah. Nary is there a day without it, particularly when one encounters the SATC demographic. A soap is a soap is a soap, and SATC is nothing but sudsy. TS, on the other hand, is just funny and something to make us feel good — nay, warm and cozy. It makes sweet fun of the things we all encounter. We laugh without inciting life or office drahma. Ah yes, Marge, cook us something indecipherable.

In the world of SATC, Manolos are the norm… nobody ever runs low on money. Oh if they do, someone gives them the engagement ring they no longer — need? TS characters, however, struggle with household budgets and sport practical, if not stylish, attire.

Marge wears a green dress and has a blue beehive. Period. She does not need fancy clothes to make her life fabulous. Shopping is a functional activity — not a lifestyle imperative. Here in real (non-reel) world, we tussle with expenses like Marge. Too many young pros think their careers benefit from dressing like an SATC character. It does not — and it will not ever (unless you wear a flower ON your blouse and in which case, har-har!). Dressing in silly outfits makes you look silly. It tends to make you debt-ridden, too, apparently.

SATC told us fancy food and Cosmos make us better. TS explained that donuts, Krusty burgers and beer are practical and yummy and even nutritious.

Life is not lived on a diet of pastel-colored food and $18 cocktails, nor should it be. Real people — and successful ones! — eat donuts and burgers and drink beer. Spending copious energy on eating to be seen is a waste of time.

On May 30, SATC will follow TS with a movie, to which countless fans will flock. While there they will get yet more bad life advice from those Vapid Vixens who inhabit a New York that — news flash — does not exist except in the eyes of Darren Star and his neophytes. These fans would be better off buying The Simpsons Movie DVD and getting busy with some popcorn. Plus, the Extras on that are beyond priceless. We learn so much.

And that, friends, is why Springfield rules.

Erin Mitchell is a VP at RLM and the keeper of this newsletter. Argue? Come on. Tell her all about the lifestyle and cultural value of Sex and the City. Bring it on — editor@rlmpr.com.