Wikipedia announced recently that it will make it possible for a broader swath of users to edit controversial subjects on the site whose pages are locked due to abuse and political manipulation. Generally, any reader can edit a page, but there are certain people and topics that the Wiki masterminds do not allow ‘editing’ of without prior vetting from senior Wikipedia staff.
[linebreak]
For example, search the George W. Bush page and you will find that the ‘edit’ button does not appear below sub-sections. Editing by just anybody is not allowed for the former American President’s page. Type in the name of a lesser known political figure, like the assassinated Zimbabwean independence leader, Herbert Chitepo, and you will find edit buttons a plenty which the whole world can click.
[linebreak]
Commenting to the BBC, Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales said that tighter security on sensitive subjects is necessary, but that these checks have also “prevented thoughtful and sincere newcomers from making good changes.”
[linebreak]
Wikipedia has set up a blog page to show readers how they can navigate the new rules so they too can add to controversial subjects and people. In theory, the changes will make Wikipedia more aligned with its user driven content philosophy, though some content will still be censored.
[linebreak]
Currently, there are over 2000 pages that are considered ‘divisive’ on the site, making up 0.1% of the 3.3 million articles.
[linebreak]
Interesting to note, Germany requires that all Wikipedia pages in the German language be vetted, not just those for controversial characters. The current changes only apply to the English language version of Wikipedia.
People said…