Security classification and the secrecy system

Abstract

Abstract The current executive order on security classification seeks to establish criteria and standards for classifying information, to set standards on the release of information, and to provide guidance for withholding national security information requested under the Freedom of Information Act. This tripartite effort is a fundamental mistake and one which has hindered efforts to reduce secrecy. This article discusses what the appropriate standards should be in each situation and suggests how these objectives might be accomplished, but recommends that the executive order on security classification be limited to its original function.