The selection of three whistleblowers, one of them from Minnesota, as Time Magazine’s people of the year demonstrates an important truth: One person, even if that person doesn’t seem to have much power, can make a positive difference.

An FBI agent who blew the whistle on how the system failed to prevent the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, a WorldCom auditor who shone the light on billions of dollars in accounting irregularities, and an Enron vice president who warned of the company’s impending collapse were recognized for their efforts. The choice is remarkable because the winners are unremarkable, relatively speaking. They are not the giants of politics or industry who usually get such an honor; they are mostly anonymous people who saw a wrong and did what they could to make it right. All three had to fight against a culture, in the FBI and their respective companies, that discouraged going against the grain.

That makes them heroes, even more so than the powerful world leaders or celebrities who get most of the attention. Without the benefit of position, fame or influence, they nevertheless fought for what was right &045; even though their lives would no doubt have been easier if they had kept quiet.

Tribune editorials represent the opinion of the newspaper’s management and editorial staff.