TED: What Wikipedia teaches us about balancing truth and beliefs | Katherine Maher

Catherine Maher discusses her experience as CEO of the Wikimedia Foundation during a time of global disinformation. She explores how Wikipedia's model of volunteerism, transparency, and collaboration has maintained public trust. Maher introduces the concept of 'minimum viable truth' as a way to navigate disagreements and emphasizes the importance of productive friction, community norms, interdependence, and shared power in decision-making. She concludes with a call to action for setting aside personal truths to foster collaboration and understanding.

What factors contributed to the increase in trust in Wikipedia during a global crisis of fake news?

How does Wikipedia's model of volunteerism and transparency differ from traditional institutions?

Why is it important to acknowledge different truths in conversations about culture and identity?

What challenges arise when personal truths are used in collective decision-making?

What is meant by 'minimum viable truth' and how can it be applied in discussions?

In what ways can disagreement lead to more agreeable outcomes in collaborative environments like Wikipedia?

What strategies can be employed to foster productive friction in discussions?

What role does community engagement play in maintaining the integrity of Wikipedia's content?

How can the concept of shared power enhance collaboration in decision-making processes?

How does the urgency of decision-making impact trust in democratic processes?