The foundation of political maneuvering uses information to enhance your power. In these cases I refer to politics as methods or tactictics employed within an organization (public or private)for purpose of effecting control (i.e., power)
Secret Information
The security level assigned to information is used to determine who can view it. The use of classification is intended to allow the holder of the information a fair and easy way to control it’s use.
Conceptually the information could be misused. The problem is restricting the availability of information can protect but it can also harm.
In some cases, information may be withheld from you in order to enable the holder to manipulate you to achieve their personal goals.
For Example
If your address was considered secret, and you called for emergency assistance but passed out before giving your address. The first responders asks the phone company for your address but it is withheld because it’s secret information.
Not having your address in the wrong hands does make sense, however as noted, having the information withheld in some situations could be disasterous.
Sharing Ideas
I have always believed the best approach is to share as openly as possible. In this way you can avoid the situation where the witholding of information has negative impacts.
Of course you could share information that causes you harm ( like your credit card number and PIN). The really harmful information you should withold is typically relatively identifiable.
Using information to manipulate events in your favour might have some value, but is it ethical?
