Good point, although in this instance of "argumentum ad verecundiam" Snowden has the credibility and has stated a common objection in such a succinct way that I

Good point, although in this instance of "argumentum ad verecundiam" Snowden has the credibility and has stated a common objection in such a succinct way that I think it bears repeating provided it is stated accurately. Appealing to authority can be a fallacious way to reason, however it can also be done correctly, and is a powerful way to influence people. I love your visual of phone/quote/mic drop - that'd definitely be the wrong way to do it :)