This quote suggests that knowledge and transparency are integral to a functioning democracy. In a democratic system, power is vested in the people who elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf. For this system to work effectively, citizens need to be well-informed about the actions and decisions of their government. If the government’s activities are shrouded in secrecy, it becomes impossible for citizens to make informed choices and hold their representatives accountable.

The quote essentially advocates for transparency, accountability, and an informed citizenry. It implies that if you truly believe in democracy, you should insist on knowing what your government is doing because this knowledge empowers you to participate meaningfully in the democratic process.

Applying this idea in today’s world, we can see the importance of freedom of information and the role of the media in disseminating this information. In an era of ‘fake news’ and misinformation, the need for reliable, transparent information is more crucial than ever. In many societies, there is a growing demand for governments to be more transparent and accountable.

In terms of personal development, this quote might inspire individuals to be more proactive in seeking information and participating in civic activities. It suggests that we should not passively accept information handed to us but should seek to understand the workings of our government and hold it accountable. This could mean anything from fact-checking news stories to engaging in peaceful protests, voting in every election, or even running for office.

In essence, this quote is a call to action for every citizen to take responsibility for the health and success of their democracy by staying informed and holding their government accountable.