Summary:
The idiom "a can of worms' references a complex and troublesome situation that may arise by disclosure of material facts. The decision to disclose may lead to significant subsequent problems.
Disclosure may lead to expected calculations and unintended consequences. Failure to disclose may also be a negotiation tactic or an intended obfuscation. One set of material facts is another person's "can of worms," when self-serving agendas are attached.
Article:
This idiom has a wide range of applications, both personal and professional.
This is a complicated issue. I will remain silent because I don't want to open a can of worms. Is this a personal issue, such as drawing attention to someone with special needs? In a business transaction, presenting all material facts known is part of the law and fiduciary obligation. Business required full disclosure to the client.
Governments are reluctant to disclose the truth because it would expose waste, fraud, and abuse.
The CIA remains secretive because disclosure of its activities would expose a multitude of sensitive issues.
Labor unions' activities are kept secret from their members because disclosure would expose a multitude of issues.
When observing the American enterprise, distinguishing between random and non-random events is a challenging task due to the secretive forces that influence the administrative state. Disclosure would open a Pandora's box.
This excellent article by Paul Craig Roberts effectively uses the phrase "a can of worms."