Eric Snowden is a household name by now. He is that alleged ex-CIA personnel who leaked information on how the United States government is spying on everyone’s social media, et al.

He is holed up in Hong Kong and is threatening to reveal more.

There is growing clamor in the internet world and in the real world for his protection and a few countries have lined up, including Russia, to provide him asylum.

There are flowers and brickbats equally thrown his way. A few appreciate his guts and ethics while others question his patriotism and professionalism.

[dreamwork cats=76,77]
Click on a card to send.

This one’s a difficult to judge case.

Why does the government spy?

Not to make use of our data for their own nefarious activities but to be vigilant against terrorists and their activities. These days terrorists don’t live in caves or don’t belong to a particular group any more. There are more and more people who read the wrong literature and get brainwashed on their own and individually carry out gruesome attacks.

In such a scenario, the government machinery has to take some drastic steps even if it means the right to privacy is compromised to a certain degree.

And the citizenry should be understanding of the fact that such a thing is necessary for their own safety. We still have to go through x-ray scanning at airports and we understand why that is being done. Nothing can be more private than a full body check. We accept that. Why can’t we accept this intrusion of privacy on our social media platforms?

Well, the other side of the coin is as valid. Why should we compromise our daily banter with our family , beloved and our most innermost private thoughts and secrets to the world jus’ to be safe to a certain degree?

What is safe and secure life if your privacy is compromised?

Is that life meaningful at all?

Questions to ponder. There are no right answers to these questions, but some introspection should lead to an inspired decision.

Let’s see.