Skip to content

The government's assertion that it must be unhindered in…

“The government's assertion that it must be unhindered in protecting our security can camouflage the desire to increase Executive power, while the press's cry of the public's right to know can mask a quest for competitive advantage or a hidden animus. Neither the need to protect our security nor…” quote by Richard Stengel
Download Open image
“The government's assertion that it must be unhindered in protecting our security can camouflage the desire to increase Executive power, while the press's cry of the public's right to know can mask a quest for competitive advantage or a hidden animus. Neither the need to protect our security nor the public's right to know is a blank check.”

Richard Stengel

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 hide behind security and transparency can hide profit motives, so both claims need scrutiny.

In simple terms: Security and openness can be used to mask hidden agendas.

Key Takeaway

Question claims critically.

Themes

politics media power transparency

Mood

cautious critical

Type

analytical commentary

When to use this quote

  • government policy
  • journalism
  • corporate communication
  • public advocacy

Key Concepts

democracy information control propaganda

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who benefits from secrecy?
  • How can transparency be genuine?
A Different Perspective

Unchecked authority can erode freedoms.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Richard Stengel

Explore all 5 Richard Stengel quotes

More Advantage quotes

Browse all 3,503 Advantage quotes