According to a recent research project reported in New Scientist, ” Wikipedians are ‘closed’ and ‘disagreeable’.” Those carrying out the study were “surprised that contributors scored low for agreeableness and openness to new ideas, given that contributing to the website is based on sharing knowledge”.

Sadly, I could’ve told you this. Most Wikipedia “editors” don’t actually write or research articles (except maybe those about TV shows), but spend their time enforcing “rules”, deleting things, making up new rules, and generally living out some kind of twisted fantasy that involves being a middle manager who scolds people. The fact that a project nominally devoted to creating an encyclopedia of all the world’s knowledge is viewed my so many as “social life” should have been the first clue.

• Wikipedians are ‘closed’ and ‘disagreeable’. New Scientist no. 2689. 31 December 2008.

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