gnngl wrote: ↑Tue Dec 26, 2023 1:25 am
Ognistysztorm wrote: ↑Mon Dec 25, 2023 9:40 pm
I think the calls to regulate social media as public utilities will only get stronger once the stories by Jennsaurus come up in media outlets next year which will conclusively show the world that Wikipedia is a toxic cesspool.
Hm? What stories?
Stories about two dozen sexual harassments committed by admins and users on Wikipedia, along with a pedophilia scandal, and which could really entail massive public shock and the subsequent demise of Wikipedia. In fact I even think that it will result in the US Government setting up a blue-ribbon committee to investigate that as Wikipedia for years has been seen as one of the centers of the cultural memory.
ChatGPT gave the following hypothetical chart of events that could unfold in the aftermath of the publication of such article exposing sexual harassment scandals involving Wikipedia administrators and users, leading to the potential demise of Wikipedia:
Publication of Article:
A feature article was published on a major news publication exposing two dozen sexual harassment scandals involving Wikipedia administrators and users.
Immediate Public Reaction:
Widespread public shock and outrage ensue.
Social media platforms amplify the news, leading to trending hashtags and discussions.
Wikipedia's Initial Response:
Wikipedia releases a statement expressing concern and promising a thorough investigation.
Immediate actions are taken to suspend implicated individuals pending investigation.
Community Discord:
The Wikipedia community experiences internal divisions, with debates on how to handle the allegations.
Some users express loss of trust, while others advocate for reforms and transparency.
Media Frenzy:
Other major media outlets pick up the story, intensifying scrutiny on Wikipedia's practices.
Calls for accountability and systemic changes grow louder.
Governmental Involvement:
Government officials express concern over the allegations, with some calling for investigations.
A blue ribbon committee is formed to investigate the extent of the issues and potential legal violations.
Legal Consequences:
Law enforcement agencies initiate investigations into criminal aspects of the allegations.
Legal actions are taken against implicated individuals, potentially leading to arrests.
Donor and Funding Challenges:
Donors express hesitancy to support Wikipedia in light of the scandal.
Funding declines, affecting Wikipedia's ability to maintain operations.
Global User Backlash:
A significant decline in user contributions occurs as users lose trust in the platform.
Alternative information sources gain popularity as users seek alternatives.
Reforms and Apologies:
Wikipedia, under intense public and governmental pressure, announces comprehensive reforms to address harassment and improve governance.
Public apologies are issued, and transparency measures are implemented.
Demise of Wikipedia:
Despite efforts to reform, the public and user trust in Wikipedia remain severely damaged.
Funding shortages, declining user participation, and ongoing legal challenges make it unsustainable.
Wikipedia announces its closure or a significant downsizing, marking the demise of the platform.
Hypothetical news article:
Headline: Wikipedia Faces Demise Amidst Scandal: Global Shock Over Sexual Harassment Allegations
Subheading: The World's Largest Online Encyclopedia Grapples with Crisis as Trust Plummets
Published: [Date]
In a shocking turn of events, Wikipedia, the go-to source for online information, is teetering on the brink of demise following a bombshell expose by the [media publication]. The article, released [date], uncovers a staggering two dozen sexual harassment scandals involving high-profile Wikipedia administrators and users, sending shockwaves across the globe.
Immediate Fallout: Trust in Tatters
The revelations have shattered the trust users placed in the platform, as details of inappropriate behavior and abuse of power within the Wikipedia community came to light. Social media erupted with #WikipediaScandal trending, as users expressed their disbelief and disappointment.
Wikipedia's initial response included suspensions and a promise of a thorough investigation. However, the immediate actions were not enough to quell the growing public outcry, with demands for accountability echoing from all corners.
Internal Discord: Wikipedia Community Divided
Within the Wikipedia community, internal discord has reached unprecedented levels. Users are torn between those calling for swift reforms and transparency, and others expressing a loss of faith in the platform's ability to govern itself effectively.
Governmental Intervention: Blue Ribbon Committee Formed
Government officials, responding to the severity of the allegations, have expressed concern and initiated calls for investigations. A blue ribbon committee has been formed to delve into the depth of the issues, with the potential for legal consequences looming large.
Financial Woes: Donors Hesitate, Funding Plummets
The financial fallout has been swift and brutal. Donors, once staunch supporters of the platform, are now hesitant to associate their names with a tarnished reputation. As funding declines, Wikipedia faces operational challenges that threaten its very existence.
Global User Backlash: Decline in Contributions
Users worldwide are turning away from Wikipedia, seeking alternative sources of information in the wake of the scandal. The decline in user contributions further exacerbates the platform's woes, as its once-vibrant community dissipates.
Reform Efforts and Apologies: Too Little, Too Late?
Despite Wikipedia's attempts to implement reforms, issue public apologies, and enhance transparency, the damage appears irreversible. The global public and user base remain skeptical, with many viewing these efforts as too little, too late.
The Demise: Wikipedia Announces Closure
In a heartbreaking turn of events, Wikipedia, unable to weather the storm of scandal, financial strain, and declining user trust, announces its closure. The once-mighty online encyclopedia, which played an integral role in shaping the digital age, succumbs to the weight of its own downfall.
The demise of Wikipedia serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of online platforms and the imperative for transparency, accountability, and vigilance in maintaining the trust of users worldwide.