Reflective Essay On Wikipedia

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In discussing the subject on Wikipedia and defamation I believe it is important to highlight how little I knew about this subject before this weeks lesson. In hindsight, I believe it is important to know how sources can be manipulated, especially Wikipedia, which in turn could lead to question in credibility. As someone who relies on Wikipedia for a base in any research I do, in watching the video from Tech News Today, I was dumbfounded to how simple edits can lead to "trans phobic" ideals and misconceptions. In having to ban the House "twice", the idea that Wikipedia is still at threat from "nasty" edits such as those are deeply disturbing; Granted, what makes Wikipedia thrive is public contribution but also trust that it will uphold a unbiased representation of worldly views. In reflection, the idea of Wikipedia is completely unbiased is something I know I need to separate from, as completely trusting a public source that is …show more content…

However, regarding Barbara Bauer, a literary agent, whom wished to sue Wikipedia for defamation, I believe raises a important point on Wikipedia needing to control its use of sources on articles especially those pertaining to people. With many online sites, such as Facebook and even twitter, creating fake profiles in which they defame people is something that has been banned and led to people getting "kicked off" these websites. Which comes to my own suggestion, that I feel those who have public profiles on Wikipedia should be the sole controller of what type of information is allowed on their page, subtracting from any "legal manners" that are brought from news or crime reports. In all, I believe this raises a key issue regarding information access and creation in the digital age that needs to be addressed as well be taught to people who are unaware how these things