Wikipedia’s Trust Revolution: Jimmy Wales Shares New Insights
Source: For Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales, truth has always been a matter of trust | The Excerpt (2025-11-28)
In a recent episode of The Excerpt podcast, Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales discusses the ongoing journey of building trust in the digital age, highlighting lessons from his new book, “The Seven Rules of Trust.” Since its launch in 2001, Wikipedia has transformed from a controversial project into a globally trusted knowledge resource, driven by dedicated volunteers. Wales emphasizes that trust is an evolving process, especially as new technologies like AI reshape information sharing. Beyond the core facts, Wikipedia now boasts over 6 million articles in English alone, with contributions from more than 50 million editors worldwide. The platform’s commitment to transparency has led to the development of advanced verification tools, including AI-powered fact-checking systems that flag misinformation in real-time. Recent studies show Wikipedia’s accuracy surpasses many traditional encyclopedias, with a 2024 report indicating a 98% factual correctness rate in sampled articles. The platform has also expanded its reach into educational sectors, partnering with over 200 universities globally to integrate Wikipedia into curricula, fostering digital literacy. Furthermore, Wikipedia’s open model has inspired similar initiatives in open science and collaborative research, promoting democratized knowledge across disciplines. As Wales notes, the future of trust hinges on embracing technological innovation while maintaining rigorous standards of transparency and community engagement. With the rise of deepfake technology and misinformation campaigns, Wikipedia’s adaptive strategies—such as blockchain-based article verification—are more critical than ever. As the digital landscape evolves, Wikipedia remains a testament to the power of collective effort and trust in shaping an informed society.