Truth is, I'm not even sure I want to get into this. And, for the record, this inquiry concerns only the English Wikipedia Project. I spend 99% of the time I have to devote to the English Wikipedia Project at editing articles; the other 1% being spent on the Mailing Lists. So, consequently, I know very little about the authority structure that exists in the Project. But something that has been bothering me for some time now; something that has been touched on very cautiously at various times on this List; and something that I firmly believe is at the root of many of the problems that have been discussed on this List (and elsewhere) for some time now. What is the actual chain of authority that now exists in the Project? This I am certain of: Sue Gardner is the Executive Director of the Wikimedia Foundation. Just like any corporate structure, her line of authority is clear enough. The Foundation oversees (my term) and provides the technical equipment and funding to operate the Project. Is there a similar "structure", "line of authority" or "buck stops here" entity within the English Wikipedia Project. Would, could, someone please help me to see and understand it? I need some basics here so that I can take part in any discussion.
Marc Riddell
Editing, content, and on-wiki policy is in the hands of the editing community, limited by their ability to agree.
The exception is actions which create potential liabilities.
Heavy responsibility I know...
Fred Bauder
And if changes were proposed to this present system, who (or what entity) would approve and implement them?
Marc