The quote reflects a nuanced perspective on secrecy and transparency. It suggests that there are times when certain secrets should remain confidential because they serve a valuable purpose, while other secrets might be better off revealed to foster truth and accountability.
Beyond its surface meaning, this statement invites us to consider the ethical dimensions of what constitutes a worthy secret. Seymour Hersh implies that not all information deserves to be exposed; sometimes confidentiality can protect individuals or safeguard sensitive operations without causing harm. Conversely, he acknowledges that there are circumstances where maintaining secrecy could perpetuate injustice or conceal wrongdoing, and in such cases, revealing these secrets is crucial for promoting justice and transparency.
Seymour Hersh, an acclaimed investigative journalist known for his incisive reporting on controversial topics like the My Lai Massacre during the Vietnam War and more recent disclosures about U.S. military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, offers a thoughtful reflection on the delicate balance between secrecy and openness. His career exemplifies the principle that while some secrets should be kept to protect privacy or national security, others must be exposed to uncover truth and uphold ethical standards.
