Wikipedia: Introduction

• use Wikipedia as a starting point 
• use to find more search terms or keywords
• critically evaluate the information 

Wikipedia is guided by 5 pillars - that is ethical principals.

1. Wikipedia is an encyclopedia
2. Wikipedia is written from a neutral point of view
3. Wikipedia is free content that anyone can use, edit, and distribute
4. Wikipedia's editors should treat each other with respect and civility
5. Wikipedia has no firm rules

• cite Wikipedia articles in your for assignments 
• treat medical and legal information as fact
• Use it as your only information source

Wikipedia's Weakness

• The information might oscillate between viewpoints.
• Articles are vandalized, whether for fun, as a hoax, or because the subject is controversial.
• Some articles are written from a insider's view, with highly technical language, while some are written for a more general audience.

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