[nitid_name]

I think Snowden's utility (in terms of historical significance) is in being relatively hydrophobic to the mud that's been slung at him. The only thing that's stuck (from what little I've seen of broadcast/print news reflected off the people I know who consume it) is his failure in formalized education.

He's a good looking heteronormative guy with no criminal record nor obvious sexual improprieties. He had nothing to gain from making the disclosure and apparently quite a bit to lose.