week2-CHEN SITING(진사정)

1. Summary

Reagle’s work explores Wikipedia’s unique model of knowledge creation through open collaboration. Unlike traditional encyclopedias written by experts, Wikipedia relies on volunteers who follow core principles like neutrality, verifiability, and good-faith cooperation. The text highlights how this system balances openness with quality control, using tools like edit histories and discussion pages to resolve conflicts. However, challenges emerge in controversial topics where editors struggle to maintain neutrality amid differing viewpoints.

2. Interesting Insights

One surprising takeaway was how Wikipedia’s "neutral point of view" (NPOV) policy doesn’t mean avoiding controversy but fairly representing all significant perspectives. Another eye-opener was the concept of "good-faith collaboration"—the assumption that most editors genuinely aim to improve content, even when disagreeing. The text also revealed how Wikipedia’s early success depended not just on technology but on building a culture of trust and shared norms among strangers.

3. Unresolved Question
While Reagle explains how Wikipedia handles bias and disputes, I wonder how sustainable this model is as participation declines and misinformation grows. Can a system built on volunteer goodwill and consensus adapt to today’s polarized digital landscape? The text could have explored alternative models or reforms to address these emerging threats to collaborative knowledge-building.

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