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No, It's not fair. But I was thinking more along the lines…

“No, It's not fair. But I was thinking more along the lines of the Pentagon and Washington itself. Sometimes I suspect that those who are running things might grow addicted to power. Secrecy's essential in wartime, but once in place, will it ever be removed?” quote by Marge Piercy
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““No, It's not fair. But I was thinking more along the lines of the Pentagon and Washington itself. Sometimes I suspect that those who are running things might grow addicted to power. Secrecy's essential in wartime, but once in place, will it ever be removed?””

Marge Piercy

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Power can become a habit for those who wield it, and secrecy that begins as a wartime necessity may persist long after the conflict ends.

In simple terms: Power can become addictive; secrecy may linger after war.

Key Takeaway

Question power structures and demand transparency.

Themes

politics power secrecy government ethics

Mood

skeptical concerned

Type

critical analytical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • military oversight
  • journalistic investigation
  • public advocacy

Key Concepts

authoritarianism institutional inertia accountability

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who benefits from ongoing secrecy?
  • How can societies balance security with openness?
A Different Perspective

Secrecy can be justified for security, making reform difficult.

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