Ask Us!: ATA

In 2013, computer expert and former CIA systems administrator, Edward Snowden released confidential government documents to the press about the existence of invasive U.S. governmental surveillance programs. According to the U.S. government, his actions violated the Espionage Act of 1917 and damaged the intelligence and defense infrastructure that protects our nation. Snowden argued that he had a moral obligation to act. He gave a justification for his “whistleblowing” by stating that he had a duty “to inform the public as to that which is done in their name and that which is done against them.” At this point in history, Snowden has been called a traitor, a hero, a whistleblower, a dissident, and a patriot.

This lecture will examine the events leading up to Edward Snowden’s decision to reveal U.S. governmental secrets to the public and whether his actions were motivated by a decision to preserve the civil liberties of people or whether it was an act of unforgivable treason. A special focus will be on the discussion as to the balance between civil liberties and security as it relates to U.S. foreign policy and the war on terrorism.