I think that the value of an honorary degree depends on the standard that the school requires in order to grant one. Some people get honorary degrees because their achievements have been outstanding. Other people get honorary degrees because... Well... Of other reasons.

PhD is supposed to be a research degree. IMHO honorary PhD's should only be given out for outstanding research achievement. This isn't the case, however. Musicians sometimes get them etc etc.

A PhD is supposed to be a research degree. Even honorary PhD's don't tell you anything about how nice the person is or how helpful they may be etc etc.