TED: The dangers of willful blindness | Margaret Heffernan

The video discusses the story of Gayla Benefield from Libby, Montana, who discovered the harmful effects of asbestos in her town. Despite community resistance, she persisted in raising awareness. The concept of willful blindness is explored, highlighting how people often ignore inconvenient truths. The video also discusses the role of whistleblowers and their impact on society, emphasizing the importance of using one's freedom to speak up.

What unusual observation did Gayla Benefield make while working in Libby, Montana?

• Many men were at home during the day on oxygen tanks.

• The town had an unusually high number of children.

• There were frequent power outages in the area.

• The wildlife in the area was disappearing.

What was the primary use of vermiculite in Libby, Montana?

• For water purification

• For soil conditioning and insulation

• As a food preservative

• As a building material

What is the legal concept that describes ignoring information you could and should know?

• Willful blindness

• Negligence

• Ignorance

• Incompetence

What percentage of people in corporations are aware of problems but choose not to speak up?

• 85%

• 60%

• 50%

• 90%

What is a common misconception about whistleblowers?

• They are disloyal and crazy.

• They are always wrong.

• They work in secret.

• They are usually rewarded.

What motivated Steve Bohlsen to speak up about a dangerous surgeon?

• His own health issues

• A conversation with his daughter

• A financial incentive

• Pressure from his colleagues

What did Cynthia Thomas do to help soldiers returning from the Iraq war?

• Wrote a book

• Opened a legal firm

• Started a protest group

• Set up a support cafe

What is the key message about freedom in the context of whistleblowing?

• Freedom is not necessary for change.

• Freedom is a myth.

• Freedom should be used to address issues.

• Freedom is only for the privileged.

Why did some people initially enter the asbestosis clinic through the back door?

• They were ashamed of their condition.

• They were avoiding the media.

• They didn't want to admit Gayla was right.

• The front door was under construction.

What quality is essential for those who choose to use their freedom to address issues?

• Patience and persistence

• Aggressiveness

• Indifference

• Secrecy