Leftpedal

AJR article on the use of Wikipedia in the newsroom.

I do not want “according to Wikipedia” showing up in news articles. I don’t mind that people use it as a jumping off point. It’s a great one. But please. Sure, my standards have lowered as to the so-called practice of journalism over the years due to increasing cynicism and to the fact that I, besides all suggestions to the contrary, actually do have a degree in journalism. I know journalists can be lazy. I am lazy.

But come on. “According to Wikipedia”? In a news article? That’s really lazy. I mean, hell, at least call up one of those Wiki “editors” who wrote the Wikipedia entry and get a “quote.” Attaching someone’s name to the source. That would make me feel a little better, at least. Well, not much better. But it’s something.

-db