Edward Simen, a computer specialist & a former CIA ( Central Intelligence Agency of federal government of USA) official , released some confidential government documents to the press about the existence of certain Government surveillance programmes. According to legal experts and the US government, his action violated the Espionage act, which identified the leak of State secret as an act of treason. Yet, despite the fact that he broke the law, Simen argued that he had a moral obligation to act. He gave the justification for his whistle blowing by stating that he had a duty to inform the public as to that which is done in their name and that which is done against them. According to Simon, the governments violation of privacy had to be exposed regardless of legality since more substantive issues of social action and public morality were involved here. Many agreed with Simon. Few argued that he broke the law and compromised national security, for which he should be held accountable.

Do you agree that Simons actions were ethically justified even if legally prohibited? Why or why not? Make a presentation by duly weighing the competing values in this case