In the information age of the 21st century, people constantly need reliable sources. Wikipedia has become one of the most influential platforms in meeting these needs, offering a unique insight into its background and operation.
What is Wikipedia?
Wikipedia is a multilingual, web-based, freely editable encyclopedia maintained by an international community. It was launched in 2001 as a project initiated by Jimmy Wales and Larry Sanger.
With more than 61 million articles available in 333 different languages, Wikipedia is edited by over 108 million users worldwide, and it receives 1.7 billion unique visitors each month.
In 2010, Index readers ranked Wikipedia as the third most indispensable website, after Google and YouTube, among the top 10 most popular internet services.
Content Creation and Verification
- Editing: Wikipedia articles are written and edited by volunteers from around the world, enabling democratic knowledge sharing.
- Sources: To ensure reliability, Wikipedia places great emphasis on referencing credible sources.
- Verification: New and modified articles undergo strict review to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the information.
The Significance of Wikipedia
As one of the most visited websites globally, Wikipedia has become a primary source of information for modern society. It is used for academic studies, research, and general knowledge purposes alike.
The Role of the Community
Wikipedia wouldn’t exist without its active community, which continually expands and updates the content. The efforts of this community ensure that Wikipedia continues to grow and evolve.