Which Blogs Count as Legitimate Sources on Wikipedia?

When it comes to determining the legitimacy of sources for inclusion in Wikipedia articles, the foundation adheres to stringent criteria that ensure accuracy and reliability. While there isn’t a specific list of blogs that are approved or rejected, certain characteristics of online sources can help identify whether they meet Wikipedia’s standards.

Understanding the Standards for Reliable Sources on Wikipedia

The criteria for reliable sources on Wikipedia are detailed and can be found in the Reference Desk section of the Wikipedia editing community. These include both common knowledge and specific sources that are subject to varying levels of scrutiny. For hundreds of articles, peer-reviewed journals and other notable publications are the primary references, while for others, expert opinion and credible online resources are essential.

Critiquing Blogs as Reliable Sources

Blogs on their own are not inherently illegitimate sources for Wikipedia articles, but their status as a reliable source can vary widely depending on several factors. Here’s how to evaluate blogs for potential suitability as legitimate sources:

1. Editorship and Credibility

The first crucial aspect of a blog being a reliable source is the presence of an editorial process and high author credibility. Here are the key points to consider:

.Editorship: Blogs with a clear, established editorial process (where content is reviewed by other experts or peers) are more likely to contribute valid information. Credibility: The author(s) of the blog should have a recognized expertise or academic background in the subject matter they cover. This background can be verified through other sources or through the author's own publications in reputable journals or books.

2. Peer Review and Transparency

Peer review is an essential element of ensuring quality and reliability. Well-established blogs often include transparent peer review processes, akin to academic journals. Here are some additional points to consider:

Peer Review: If the blog is part of a larger network with rigorous peer review processes, it is more likely to be seen as reliable. Transparency: A blog should provide clear information about its content creation process, including how contributions are reviewed, edited, and updated.

3. Publication History and Citing Factors

While not all blogs have a publication history with reputable citations, these factors are crucial in establishing the authenticity and reliability of the content:

Publisher Reputation: If the blog is published by a reputable company or organization, this can enhance its credibility. However, self-published blogs or those hosted on free platforms like Blogger or WordPress tend to be viewed with less trust. Citation History: A blog’s ability to be cited in other reputable sources can also contribute to its reliability. The more references a blog receives from trustworthy sources, the more credible it is perceived to be.

4. Alternatives to Self-Published Blogs

While self-published blogs may lack the editorial oversight and transparency needed for a reliable source, there are alternatives that meet Wikipedia’s standards. These include:

Expert-Authored Articles: Written by subject matter experts who have established themselves in their fields. Educational Platforms: Blog-like content from educational institutions, research organizations, and government agencies. Consensus-Building Platforms: Forums or online publications that gather and present expert opinions on a variety of topics.

Conclusion

While Wikipedia does not maintain a comprehensive list of acceptable and unacceptable blog sources, there are clear guidelines to determine if a blog can be considered reliable. By focusing on editorship, peer review, transparency, and citation history, Wikipedia editors can establish whether a blog meets the necessary standards. Prioritizing quality and credibility ensures that the information presented in Wikipedia articles is accurate and reliable, aligning with the site's mission to provide a free and accessible encyclopedic resource to the world.