Meaning: This quote by Judge Harold Greene highlights the critical role of transparency and accountability in a democratic society, particularly in the context of national security and classified information. The quote suggests that if the security apparatus – which includes intelligence agencies, law enforcement, and other entities responsible for safeguarding the nation's security – could withhold vital information from elected officials or manipulate information, they could effectively wield disproportionate influence and decision-making power, potentially undermining the democratic process.

The concept of transparency in governance is fundamental to the functioning of a democratic society. Elected representatives are entrusted by the people to make informed decisions on their behalf, and access to accurate and complete information is crucial for the exercise of responsible governance. However, when those within the security apparatus have the ability to conceal or distort information, it raises concerns about the potential for unaccountable and undemocratic decision-making.

Judge Greene's quote also underscores the delicate balance between national security imperatives and democratic governance. While there is a legitimate need to protect sensitive information that could compromise national security if disclosed, there is also a corresponding need for oversight and accountability to prevent abuses of power and ensure that decisions are made in the public interest.

The reference to "the real decision makers" in the quote implies that those controlling classified information have the potential to exert significant influence over policy and decision-making processes, potentially eclipsing the authority of elected officials. This raises profound questions about the nature of power and accountability within the realm of national security.

The issue of government transparency and the handling of classified information has been a subject of ongoing debate and scrutiny, particularly in the context of modern surveillance capabilities, whistleblower disclosures, and the balance between security and civil liberties. The tension between the imperative to protect sensitive information and the public's right to know has been a recurring challenge for democratic societies.

In the United States, for example, the tension between national security and transparency came to the forefront in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, leading to debates about government surveillance programs, the classification of documents, and the role of oversight mechanisms in ensuring accountability within the security apparatus.

Internationally, the impact of classified information and its potential to shape decision-making has been evident in controversies such as the WikiLeaks disclosures and the revelations by whistleblowers such as Edward Snowden. These events have sparked global conversations about the balance between government secrecy, individual privacy, and the public's right to information.

In conclusion, Judge Harold Greene's quote serves as a thought-provoking reminder of the critical importance of transparency and accountability in democratic governance, particularly in the realm of national security and classified information. It highlights the potential risks associated with undue secrecy and the implications for democratic decision-making processes. As societies grapple with the complexities of safeguarding national security while upholding democratic principles, the quote prompts reflection on the enduring imperative of maintaining a healthy balance between security imperatives and democratic accountability.