Why Secrets Are So Hard to Keep & The Curious Quirks of Language - SYSK Choice

The Allure of Secrets

Andrew Gold, an investigative journalist and filmmaker, delves into the fascinating world of secrets. He begins by defining a secret not by what it is, but by what it is not—distinguishing it from mere privacy. Gold explains that privacy is generally accepted within societal norms, while a secret often transgresses these norms. For example, owning slaves centuries ago might have been considered private, but today, it would be a deeply guarded secret due to moral implications. He also highlights that a secret isn't necessarily a lie, though lies often contain secrets. A secret, in essence, is an act you commit to withhold information that could lead to social ostracization or a drop in status.