Encyc:Quotes

One of the reasons Encyc exists is because I was unhappy with some things about Wikipedia. I don't think I'm alone in seeing bias and manipulation in a lot of Wikipedia's articles, and I think there's room out there for another encyclopedia to try to do better. For example, we have an article about Quaker State, whereas Wikipedia thinks this business is so non-notable that it needs to be merged with its parent company. On the other hand, Wikipedia has articles for practically every music band and comic book ever created. My point is not that motor oil is any more important than a comic book, but that there needs to be more than one free encyclopedia that anyone can edit, so that when controversial editorial choices are made, there's an alternative out there.

And I don't think that anyone who turns to an encylopedia for information is dumb. That's like saying there's such a thing as a stupid question. When someone looks up a topic, and comes to Encyc, I hope they realize that we're doing our best to make the most of that teachable moment, to respect their time, and not to try to indoctrinate them. One of the most annoying things about Wikipedia is how they're always trying to cram their own point of view down your throat, and all you really wanted was an encyclopedia article. It always helps if people bring critical reading skills, and we are respectful of them and don't react with anger when challenged (as on Wikipedia).

I still think Wikipedia is an excellent idea, revolutionary for its time, and its time is still now. I hope that it continues to be successful.

-- Auggie/Emp

I'm fairly conflicted about the whole thing. I see rules as tools we can use, but they have limitations. They're kind of like fixed fortifications in warfare (Patton's "monuments to human stupidity"). Kind of useless unless you have good people backing them up. "Brave men are a city's strongest tower of defence - Alcaeus" ... so ideally if you have a bullying situation the decent people in the crowd will take charge and make things right.

-- Emp/Auggie