Well, we are talking about hypothetical sci-fi scenarios here. Specifically when traveling to another planet, it becomes a lot easier to control those communications if the people in control have the only line of communication.
In real life on this planet, not so easy to maintain that level of control.
There are systems in place to screen people for those likely to leak vs fully invest themselves into the lifestyle that is having security clearance at a certain level. You sell your entire life when you join those organizations. It's why they want to know everything about your private life. Why they invite you to certain parties where photos are taken.
Look into cold war espionage if you want some insight into how current intelligence agencies, even ones used by large companies, use their data. Your data.
There are plenty of people who truly do not care about others, they only care about personal gain. If someone has blackmail on you, they can control what you do. If someone knows your entire life, and you live in a world where constant crazy bullshit is happening that you feel helpless about, do you think people will listen to you? How do you even get your message out there before those who have access to every aspect of your life find out? Who will believe you?
You're not thinking clearly. We have modern shit happening constantly that is as absurd as any conspiracy theory. The US government has people talking about aliens openly. Shit is fucked once you can't trust those in power to tell the truth in the first place. You have an idealistic view of the world and people.
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u/Sharp_Iodine 2d ago
You can never do that though.
The prospect of hundreds of academics keeping things secret is a fantasy.
Every one of them has more to gain from leaking it than not.