Glenn Greenwald

Definition

Glenn Greenwald is an American journalist, author, and lawyer best known for his role in reporting on the Edward Snowden revelations regarding the National Security Agency's (NSA) global surveillance programs. His investigative work has significantly influenced discussions on privacy, government transparency, and civil liberties, marking a critical moment in the landscape of modern journalism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Glenn Greenwald's reporting on the Snowden leaks won the Pulitzer Prize for Public Service in 2014, recognizing its significant impact on journalism and civil rights.
2. He has been a vocal advocate for privacy rights and has written extensively about the implications of government surveillance on individual freedoms.
3. Greenwald's book 'No Place to Hide' details his experiences with the Snowden revelations and explores the broader themes of freedom of expression and state secrecy.
4. He founded The Intercept in 2014 as a platform for investigative journalism, emphasizing the importance of protecting sources and uncovering truths about government actions.
5. His work has often sparked debates about the balance between national security and civil liberties, highlighting the role of journalists in holding power accountable.

Review Questions

• How did Glenn Greenwald’s reporting influence public perception of government surveillance?
  • Glenn Greenwald's reporting brought significant attention to government surveillance practices revealed by Edward Snowden. His articles highlighted the extent of NSA's activities, leading to widespread public outrage and debate over privacy rights. By making complex legal and ethical issues accessible to the general public, he shaped a critical dialogue around the implications of state surveillance on individual freedoms.
• What role did The Intercept play in advancing investigative journalism, particularly in relation to government accountability?
  • The Intercept was established by Glenn Greenwald as a response to the need for fearless investigative journalism that prioritizes accountability over sensationalism. It provides a platform for whistleblowers and focuses on issues like national security and civil liberties. By publishing in-depth investigations that challenge government narratives, The Intercept has contributed to a more informed public discourse and reinforced the essential role of journalism in holding power accountable.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of Glenn Greenwald’s work on the relationship between journalism, privacy rights, and governmental transparency.
  • Glenn Greenwald's work has had profound long-term impacts on how journalism interacts with issues of privacy rights and governmental transparency. His investigative reporting has prompted legislative discussions about surveillance laws and reforms aimed at protecting citizens' rights. Additionally, he has inspired a new generation of journalists to prioritize investigative work that challenges authority, ultimately fostering a culture that demands transparency and accountability from governments, thus reshaping public expectations around privacy in the digital age.

Related terms

Edward Snowden:

A former NSA contractor who leaked classified information revealing extensive global surveillance programs conducted by the NSA and other intelligence agencies.

The Intercept: An online news organization co-founded by Glenn Greenwald that focuses on investigative journalism and provides a platform for whistleblowers and critical stories on national security and civil liberties.

Whistleblower: An individual who exposes information or activity within a private, public, or government organization that is deemed illegal, unethical, or not in the public interest.