It doesn't matter what the data is at this point, since it's encrypted, but what it says, to a disinterested observer, is that Snowden is the sort of person who would gladly wield the threat of disseminating classified US information as a way of protecting his own skin. This directly contradicts the falling-on-my-sword, leaving-my-girlfriend-and-highly-paid job martyr/hero positioning he's been going for.

Snowden is coming to light as a complex character, not some altruistic idealist who expects a pardon and a ticker-tape parade. Phrases that come to mind are "David vs. Goliath," "Catch me if you Can," and "John Le Carre." I love it because it's a more interesting story this way.

But he's already on record saying "The information is coming out, no matter what happens to me".

This isn't his ace-in-the-hole insurance for him as much as it is insurance that killing him can't stop the release of the information. That makes him far less valuable as a target for "extralegal field maneuvers".

By distributing the file, he's announced that the information has become a hydra - cutting off its head won't kill it. This won't stop the US from pursuing him, but it guarantees that his goals will be met regardless of his personal safety.

I see your point. I guess I feel that the majority of people _are_ capable of realising real life doesn't imitate Hollywood and Snowden quite rightly needs to take some sensible precautions if he is to have any hope of sustaining this story and effecting the public debate and ensuing policy changes he's fighting for.

No, this is a guarentee the information gets out regardless of what happens to him. Snowden is going to get the information out. Or, if they kill him, the information gets out. This puts those who don't want that information getting out in a difficult position, but it doesn't change his own situation very much.

I think there is room for a distinction between saving my own skin, and making sure that even if I am killed the information gets out.