Meaning: The quote by Daniel Ellsberg, a former United States military analyst, reflects on the concept of courage in the context of whistleblowing and challenging authority. Ellsberg is best known for leaking the Pentagon Papers, a top-secret study of U.S. government decision-making in relation to the Vietnam War, to the press in 1971. His actions were a bold challenge to the government's narrative and a significant act of civil disobedience. In this quote, Ellsberg distinguishes between the conventional notion of courage associated with physical risk and the less common courage required to confront powerful institutions and risk one's own status and privileges.

Ellsberg's reference to "picking up a rifle" alludes to the physical courage often associated with soldiers in combat. He acknowledges that in the context of war, many individuals demonstrate the willingness to take up arms and engage in combat, as evidenced by the millions of people who have served in conflicts such as Iraq and Vietnam. This type of courage is often valorized in society and is frequently celebrated in military narratives and popular culture.

However, Ellsberg contrasts this form of physical courage with the less common type of courage he exhibited – the courage to challenge authority, risk one's career, and defy the establishment. He highlights the rarity of individuals who are willing to jeopardize their professional standing, social connections, and access to privileges in order to expose truths that may be inconvenient or threatening to those in power. This type of courage involves confronting not only external threats but also the potential for internal conflict and personal sacrifice.

Ellsberg's mention of "risking their careers" points to the professional and social repercussions that whistleblowers and dissenters often face. Whistleblowing, particularly in government or corporate settings, can lead to ostracism, legal action, and professional ruin. The fear of retaliation and the loss of status and livelihood serve as powerful deterrents for individuals who may otherwise be aware of misconduct or injustice but are hesitant to speak out.

Additionally, Ellsberg refers to "risking being invited to lunch by the establishment," which touches on the social and cultural dimensions of challenging the status quo. This phrase underscores the potential for social isolation and exclusion from elite circles that often accompany acts of dissent. It speaks to the ways in which individuals may prioritize social acceptance and validation from powerful institutions over confronting uncomfortable truths or advocating for change.

Overall, Ellsberg's quote encapsulates the idea that while physical courage in the face of danger is widely recognized and celebrated, the courage to defy authority, challenge the establishment, and risk one's own position and privileges is far less common. His reflection sheds light on the complexities and challenges of speaking truth to power, as well as the personal and societal barriers that often inhibit individuals from taking such risks.

In conclusion, Daniel Ellsberg's quote provides a thought-provoking insight into the multifaceted nature of courage, particularly in the context of challenging authority and speaking out against injustice. It underscores the rarity and significance of individuals who are willing to confront powerful institutions and risk their own status and security in pursuit of truth and accountability. Ellsberg's own actions and the enduring impact of the Pentagon Papers serve as a testament to the enduring relevance of his reflections on courage and moral responsibility.