Wikipedia is a free, online encyclopedia that is collaboratively edited by volunteers from around the world. Launched in 2001, it is one of the largest and most popular general reference works on the internet. Wikipedia’s vast repository of information spans a wide range of subjects, from science and technology to history, culture, and beyond.
History of Wikipedia
Origin and Development
Wikipedia was originally created as a complement to the expert-written Nupedia. The project was initiated by Jimmy Wales and Larry Sanger on January 15, 2001. Unlike its predecessor, Wikipedia allowed virtually anyone with internet access to write and edit articles. This open editing model has led to exponential growth in the number of articles and contributors over the years. As of 2023, Wikipedia hosts over 6 million articles in English alone and exists in more than 300 languages.
Key Features of Wikipedia
Collaborative Editing
One of Wikipedia’s core features is its open editing policy. This collaborative model enables millions of users worldwide to contribute and edit content, ensuring that the information remains up-to-date and comprehensive.
Neutral Point of View (NPOV)
Wikipedia strives for a neutral point of view in all its articles. This policy mandates that articles must be written without bias and present all significant views fairly and proportionately. While this is a challenging goal, administrators and editors work tirelessly to maintain this standard.
Referenced Material
Verifiability is another cornerstone of Wikipedia’s content guidelines. Articles must be backed by reliable sources, typically referenced from primary or secondary sources. This ensures that the information provided is not only accurate but also trustworthy.
No Original Research
Wikipedia does not accept original thought or research. All information must be previously published by reputable sources. This safeguard maintains the credibility and academic integrity of the encyclopedia.
Notable Examples and Uses
Educational Resource
As one of the most visited websites globally, Wikipedia serves as a go-to reference for students, educators, and researchers. It provides a springboard for deeper research, leading users towards more specialized and detailed sources.
Cultural Impact
Given its widespread reach, Wikipedia has had a significant cultural impact. It democratizes information, making knowledge freely accessible to everyone with an internet connection. The site reflects the collective knowledge and cultural norms of its diverse group of contributors.
Comparisons and Related Terms
Encyclopædia Britannica
Encyclopædia Britannica is a well-known and highly respected general knowledge English-language encyclopedia. While it is a more authoritative source written by subject experts, it does not offer the collaborative and expansive structure of Wikipedia.
Wikidata
Wikidata is another project undertaken by the Wikimedia Foundation. It acts as a collaborative database, serving as a central repository for the structured data of its Wikimedia sister projects including Wikipedia.
FAQs
Is Wikipedia a reliable source?
How does Wikipedia ensure its content is unbiased?
Can anyone edit Wikipedia?
References
- “Wikipedia.” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Wikimedia Foundation. URL: https://www.wikipedia.org/
- Lih, Andrew. “The Wikipedia Revolution.” Hyperion, 2009.
- “About Wikipedia.” Wikimedia Foundation. URL: https://foundation.wikimedia.org/wiki/About_Wikipedia
Summary
Wikipedia is a pioneering example of a global, collaborative, and freely accessible repository of knowledge. With its open-edit policy, adherence to neutrality, and strong requirement for verifiability, it has become an invaluable resource for millions across the world. Despite its challenges, Wikipedia remains a testament to the power of collective intelligence and the democratization of information.
