Wikipedia
Wikipedia is a free online encyclopedia that allows users to edit articles collaboratively. It was co-founded by Jimmy Wales and Larry Sanger in 2001. The platform operates under an open collaboration model, utilizing the wiki software MediaWiki. Wikipedia has grown to become one of the most visited websites globally and is maintained by the Wikimedia Foundation.
Founding and Development
The inception of Wikipedia was closely linked to an earlier project called Nupedia, which aimed to create a free encyclopedia. Jimmy Wales, an Internet entrepreneur, initially launched Nupedia with the financial backing of Bomis, a web portal company he co-founded. However, due to its slow progress, Wales, along with Larry Sanger, introduced Wikipedia as a complementary project to expedite content creation through a more open editing model.
The first edition of Wikipedia was the English Wikipedia, launched on January 15, 2001. This model quickly gained popularity, leading to the development of numerous language editions such as the Norwegian Wikipedia and Polish Wikipedia.
Governance and Community
The Wikipedia community, also known as Wikipedians, comprises a diverse group of volunteers who contribute to the editing and management of articles. This community-driven approach relies on consensus and policy guidelines, such as neutrality and verifiability, to ensure content accuracy and quality.
The platform employs various tools and processes, including Wikipedia bots, to handle repetitive tasks and maintain the site's infrastructure.
Challenges and Controversies
Wikipedia has faced several controversies over issues like ideological bias and reliability. Critics, including Larry Sanger, have expressed concern over potential systemic biases within its articles. Despite these challenges, Wikipedia's open model has allowed it to continually evolve and expand its content.
In some regions, Wikipedia has encountered legal and political hurdles, such as the block of Wikipedia in Turkey, which underscores the ongoing tension between information access and governmental control.
Technological Infrastructure
Wikipedia's technological backbone, MediaWiki, is critical to its operation as a collaborative platform. This open-source software allows for seamless editing and version control. The use of bots further automates maintenance tasks, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of the site.
The Wikimedia Foundation, a non-profit organization established by Wales, oversees the platform's funding and infrastructure. It supports Wikipedia's continued growth and innovation by managing its financial resources and technological advancements, including its substantial endowment.