"The Secret State" (book)

"The Secret State" is a book by Peter Hennessy that explores the hidden workings of the UK government during the Cold War era. It uncovers how secret intelligence, military plans, and covert operations shaped national security and politics behind the scenes. The book examines the balance between open government and classified information, revealing the influence of confidentiality on decision-making and public knowledge. Hennessy combines historical analysis with insights into the machinery of state secrecy, helping readers understand how governments operate discreetly to protect national interests, often without full transparency.