More than an Episode Guide

I have never given much thought to Wikipedia.  The reason is, I knew that it is an open website that anyone could update.  I trusted it for a Dexter Episode Guide, but not much else. 

According to Wikipedia, Wikipedia began in 2001, (because of the nature of the site that may or may not be accurate) but I do not remember using it in college.  I graduated with my BS in 2004.  When I started researching my architect, Louis Asbury, I started with our Library Special Collections.  To be honest, it did not even occur to me use Wikipedia until I watched the Middlebury College Debate. 

I found the debate very informative.  I had no idea there was a community of people committed to maintaining certain entries and debating posts.  This changed my opinion on the usefulness of the site.  I think it could be a great starting point for research.  If you find an entry that is actively maintained, you can find up to the date information and arguments.  From this you may be able to research your subject from a different vantage point than before.  The second debater laid out some ground rules for using Wiki and I agree with them.  

1.Consult Wiki

2. Get background info

3. Do research

4. Go back to Wiki and improve it, using appropriate citations

I think that you can use Wikipedia to your advantage but never take it as fact.  I guess there is more to it than random Pop Culture Facts (well they may or may not be ‘facts’).