Another interesting thing that I came across, while I was doing my background work for this story and talking to prolific editors and Wikipedians, I found out that less than 5 % of them actually donated money to Wikipedia ever. Of course they contribute their valuable time and knowledge to this beautiful project. For different people, it is different way of contributing.

Those who are donating money to Wikipedia are mostly readers, who possibly believe this project is useful for them and mankind. They also donate their money to this project because it is "owned by the public" and not by a company. How many of you would want to donate money to Google search however good it is and indispensable in every day life ?

On Sun, Mar 20, 2011 at 1:02 PM, Bishakha Datta <bishakhadatta@gmail.com> wrote:

On Sun, Mar 20, 2011 at 12:22 PM, Gerard Meijssen <gerard.meijssen@gmail.com> wrote:

However, do you agree with me that being able to contribute to Wikipedia (financially or as an editor) is what it takes to give a sense of ownership?
Thanks,
GerardM

I'm not sure that making a financial contribution necessarily gives a sense of ownership.

Several people regularly contribute to charities, for instance. Indians, in particular, contribute to religious charities (eg temple trusts, wakf etc) both in small amounts during visits and in larger sums.

Does that necessarily mean they feel a sense of ownership vis a vis the charity they contribute to? I'm not sure. I think people feel good about giving, but not sure that is a proxy for ownership. Some may, others may not; it may also vary with amount etc.

Best
Bishakha