Sure, it sounds like he has your approval, and the approval of people in the privacy movement, who would use the term Hero. I accept that.

As for what the word ‘hero’ means to you, and weather I value the same things, then the answer is yes:

Do I think he did a moral act that aligned with his principles, motivated by compassion for others? Did he forsee what it would cost him and do it anyway because he believed it was the right thing to do, no matter how hard? Yes, and yes.

…I just don’t use the word ‘hero’ to describe this. The word has become a simplified symbol to me, and if anything, feels less powerful than acknowledging the real sacrifice he made in the name of his principles.

Without acknowledging that nuance, ‘Hero’ apparently puts him in the same category as housefire-puppy-rescuers, and what he did was much more considered.