Synopses & Reviews
This is the first, comprehensive study of the culture of secrecy in modern British history. Accessibly written, it places current controversies over privacy and confidentiality, secrecy and openness, integrity and public trust, in the context of the development of the liberal state since 1832.
Review
"Vincent's excellent book explores a difficult topic with consummate skill....the author treats the last part of this century with a sensitive ear for hypocrisy on both Left and Right. Above all, his admirably concise prose encapsulates the tensions and ambiguities of his subject."--Choice
About the Author
David Vincent is Professor of Social History and Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Keele.
Table of Contents
Bibliography
Index
1. The Problem of Secrecy
2. Honourable Secrecy 1832-1870
3. The Road to Regulation, 1870-1911
4. Public Knowledge, 1911-1945
5. Citizenship and Secrecy, 1945-1972
6. Secrecy and Reform, 1972-1989
7. The British Way
Afterword