Wikipedia, the free online information resource, stands as a testament to the early internet’s ethos of knowledge democratisation. It’s a platform where users can contribute to and edit content, with a mission to provide universal access to information. Wikipedia’s governance structure, which relies on a community of volunteer editors, distinguishes it from other digital platforms. These editors, who number in the tens of thousands, uphold a set of guiding principles to ensure accuracy and neutrality.
Despite its unique model, Wikipedia faces challenges. As a non-profit reliant on donations, financial sustainability is a concern. Additionally, its open-source nature makes it susceptible to misinformation, though its community of editors works tirelessly to combat this. The platform also struggles with diversity, as most editors are white, male, and from the Global North, which can lead to content bias.
Wikipedia’s success story is a reminder of an earlier internet age, where open-source platforms thrived. Yet, as it navigates the modern digital landscape, it must address its challenges to remain a reliable and representative source of information.
Go to source article: https://www.bookforum.com/print/2704/the-free-encyclopedia-is-one-of-the-last-vestiges-of-an-earlier-internet-24256