Daniel Ellsberg on the Role of a Whistle-Blower in the U.S.

The transcript discusses the role of whistleblowers in a democracy, emphasizing their duty to reveal the truth to the public and Congress, especially regarding war decisions. It highlights the oath of office to the Constitution, not to the president, and the challenges whistleblowers face, including career risks and lack of anonymity. The discussion also covers the balance between government secrecy and transparency, noting the misuse of classification to hide criminal behavior and the need for legislative changes to protect whistleblowers.

What is the primary role of a whistleblower in a democracy?

• To protect their own career

• To support the president's decisions

• To inform the public and Congress about important issues

• To maintain government secrets

What is a significant challenge faced by whistleblowers?

• Lack of media attention

• Inability to access classified information

• Risk of prosecution and career damage

• Lack of public support

How did the whistleblower in the discussed case follow the rules?

• By leaking information to the media

• By informing the Inspector General

• By directly contacting Congress

• By keeping the information secret

What is a legitimate reason for government secrecy?

• To hide embarrassing information

• To protect national security from foreign enemies

• To maintain executive privilege

• To prevent public scrutiny

What is a common misuse of the secrecy system?

• To inform the public

• To hide criminal activities

• To share information with Congress

• To protect whistleblowers

What is required to protect whistleblowers who reveal classified crimes?

• Increased media coverage

• Public protests

• Support from the executive branch

• Legislation to change current laws

What is the main purpose of the secrecy system according to the transcript?

• To protect national security

• To support whistleblowers

• To keep embarrassing or illegal activities hidden

• To ensure transparency