[WikiEN-l] The admin problem

[Ray Saintonge]

Peter Mackay wrote:

>>From: wikien-l-bounces at Wikipedia.org 
>>[mailto:wikien-l-bounces at Wikipedia.org] On Behalf Of Leif Knutsen
>>Being an admin is a big deal whether we want it to or not, 
>>because admins have it in their power to do really really 
>>annoying things to editors. Aside from 24-hour blocks, 
>>locking articles in various ways, closing discussions on 
>>AFDs, CFDs, etc., they also seem to enjoy a certain level of 
>>immunity against complaints. There is, as far as I can tell, 
>>a presumption that anyone who complains about an admin is a 
>>bit of a narcissist or troublemaker. There are also constant 
>>allegations that some admins are softer on people whose POV 
>>align with theirs, etc.
>>    
>>
>There are some admins who shouldn't be. They got there because they are good
>editors, not because they are good at being admins. 
>
Some get it because they are better at political games, not because they 
are good editors.

>When an admin uses his
>powers to win edit wars and harass those with whom he disagrees, it's time
>to reassess that editor's role in the project.
>
>Having said that, one must also consider the question - what is the highest
>priority? Building an encyclopaedia or having a good working community of
>editors?
>
Of course, building an encyclopedia has first priority, but a good 
working community of editors is essential to accomplishing that goal.

Ec