> -- shooting the messenger, casting doubts on his motivations -- and most people were rightly appalled by the spying going on on Americans.
Yes, shooting the messenger and casting doubts on his motivations were (and are) tactics used when a message reflects poorly on someone or some thing.
For what it is worth, in my comments around here, I'm not using these tactics as a way to deflect criticism away from institutions that Snowden criticizes. There was a huge breach of public trust in the NSA.
At the same time, it is interesting and important to understand Snowden's motivations.
> Wow, you seem to be making lots of replies.
Do you intend this as an insult directed at me?
Yes, I separate out different comments intentionally, because I think they warrant separate points.
I remember the trend on HN back when the Snowden leaks occurred. It wasn't palatable back then to express your views -- shooting the messenger, casting doubts on his motivations -- and most people were rightly appalled by the spying going on on Americans.
Thinking differently is a dangerous trend against whistleblowers. Whistleblowers are a good thing.
Unequivocally good. Yes, I used that word you dislike.