Too much secrecy makes us less safe from terrorists.

[gnome]

When discussing secrecy in government, the first argument I make is often that we cannot trust our government to act without oversight and still heed our civil liberties. I still feel very strongly about that.

In addition however I would like to argue that excessive secrecy also is counter-productive to security, for the following reasons...

1. Over-classification is a hindrance to information-sharing between the departments charged with defending us with terrorism.

2. Without public oversight there is often too little pressure to correct security flaws.

Thoughts?

 

[merphie]

When discussing secrecy in government, the first argument I make is often that we cannot trust our government to act without oversight and still heed our civil liberties. I still feel very strongly about that.

In addition however I would like to argue that excessive secrecy also is counter-productive to security, for the following reasons...

1. Over-classification is a hindrance to information-sharing between the departments charged with defending us with terrorism.

2. Without public oversight there is often too little pressure to correct security flaws.

Thoughts?

Too much is definately the key phrase. Some secrecy is required to protect our interest. But I know a lot of it is red tape.

In my state the agencies (Sheriffs and Police) are require to submit their crime reports to the OSBI. The OSBI doesn't share information back freely.

Not to mention the agencies are so under funded that it is difficult for them to get techology and share information. A lot of them are still using pencil and paper.