Originally Posted by
Loren Pechtel
I think you have a problem with the terms.
I see no blackmail in what was described. They were not threatening to reveal detrimental information. Rather, they were threatening adverse consequences for not waiving their rights. A threat to do bad things to you if you don't do what they want is extortion.
I'm sure I have no problem with the terms. The etymological origin and historical use of the term blackmail have informed me rather well.
Blackmail classically doesn't have as a necessary condition that there be a threat of revelation of detrimental information in the absence of demanded specific performance. A threat of other detrimental action may be sufficient for blackmail to take place.