A desire for privacy does not imply shameful secrets; Moglen argues, again and again, that without anonymity in discourse, free speech is impossible, and hence also democracy. The right to speak the truth to power does not shield the speaker from the consequences of doing so; only comparable power or anonymity can do that.
Nick HarkawayIf we one day cease to exist, what will be remarkable is that we were ever here at all.
Nick HarkawayAnd don't tell me the end justifies the means because it doesn't. We never reach the end. All we ever get is means. That's what we live with.
Nick HarkawayThe tree of nonsense is watered with error, and from its branches swing the pumpkins of disaster.
Nick HarkawayPeople don't want children to know what they need to know. They want their kids to know what they ought to need to know. If you're a teacher you're in a constant battle with mildly deluded adults who think the world will get better if you imagine it is better. You want to teach about sex? Fine, but only when they're old enough to do it. You want to talk politics? Sure, but nothing modern. Religion? So long as you don't actually think about it. Otherwise some furious mob will come to your house and burn you for a witch.
Nick Harkaway