Wikiality

Definition - What does Wikiality mean?

Wikiality refers to an online phenomenon where something erroneous or unproven is posted to Wikipedia, referenced by other websites and then believed to be a fact from thereon. Wikiality is based on the common logic that if enough people believe a statement, it must be true. The coining of the term wikiality is often credited to Stephen Colbert, who featured it on his show “The Colbert Report.”

Techopedia explains Wikiality

The concept of a group consensus overwriting reality predates the term wikiality, but Wikipedia is the first realization of this concept on a global scale. Theoretically, anyone can add to and edit a Wikipedia entry, making it possible for them to alter past and current facts. To be fair, encyclopedias have always fallen prey to bias, even when compiled solely by academics. However, Wikipedia is susceptible to bias as well as outright vandalism, making its prominence as an authoritative source somewhat troubling.

Popular White Papers

Techopedia Newsletter Sign-Up

Get Techopedia delivered to your inbox!