Sunday, March 29, 2009

Wikis = Freedom of speech?



In this doctored video, Nixon and Kennedy debate the issue of whether wikis are better than blogs. Blogs usually highlight one voice and one viewpoint, that of the creator versus the wiki which can be a combined effort of voices and perspectives. Both, of course, are mediums of expression and promote free speech, but whether one is better than the other I think is a moot point. I think the better question is "which medium carries your message most effectively?"

A blog is obviously more one-sided and guided by the person(s) posting whereas the wiki invites a variety of perspectives and can be as interactive as you make it. Although a blog is not entirely one-sided as it does give opportunity for repartee via the "comments" feature where visitors to the blog can respond to postings. However the wiki does not rely so much on comments as its structure relies on the scaffolding of ideas through constant discussion based on the premise that all parties have equal footing in said discussion.

In that sense, the wiki has a more social feel to it which may be interpreted as being more flexible and equitable.

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