The United States is not nearly so concerned that its acts…
“The United States is not nearly so concerned that its acts be kept secret from its intended victims as it is that the American people not know of them.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
He emphasizes that secrecy from victims is less concerning than the public being unaware of government actions.
In simple terms: Government secrecy harms public trust more than hiding from victims.
Demand transparency from officials.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy debates
- media reporting
- civil activism
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does secrecy affect democratic legitimacy?
- What mechanisms ensure public awareness?
Transparency may be limited by national security concerns.