week5: read Chapter 6 -- LAOXINYI

 1）Summary

Chapter 6 explores the concept of leadership in open content communities, with a particular focus on the role of the “benevolent dictator” in environments such as Wikipedia. This chapter explores the paradox of having a strong leader in an open and consensus-oriented community, highlighting the informal but powerful role of Wikipedia co-founder Jimmy Wales.

2）Interesting Point

- Authorial leadership: This leadership style is common in open content communities, where the founder or a respected figure holds significant power but exercises it with care. Welsh leadership is often described as a "benevolent dictator," although this is not an official title. His authority is based on reputation and merit, not formal appointments. This form of leadership is seen in many open content projects and is essential for responding to crises and making decisions quickly when consensus is difficult or slow to come by.

- Wales vs. Sanger： This chapter contrasts the leadership styles of two of Wikipedia's co-founders, Wales and Larry Sanger. Sanger, initially a more authoritative figure at Nupedia (Wikipedia's predecessor), was unable to adapt to the open, decentralized nature of Wikipedia, which ultimately led to his departure. Wales, on the other hand, took a more hands-off approach, using his influence strategically to guide the community with diplomacy and an emphasis on consensus.

- Benevolent Dictator Role：Welsh was often called a "benevolent dictator," a term that summed up his leadership style -- autocratic when necessary, but usually leading by example and persuasion. He was wary of potential abuses of power and worked to balance his influence with the democratic process of his community.

3）Discussion

Is the concept of a "benevolent dictator" sustainable in open communities like Wikipedia in the long run?

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