On 3/21/07, Bryan Derksen <bryan.derksen(a)shaw.ca> wrote:
If I was in Jimbo's position and was wanting to
improve my understanding
of the average Wikipedian, I think a relatively easy way to do it would
be to get myself a sock puppet account and do a little editing _as_ an
average Wikipedian. I'd try out the things that are the sources of
controversy, such as AfD or the use of certain types of sources. Get
into disagreements with some average Wikipedians and see what they think
policy and standard practice really are. Continuing the monarchy
analogy, this would be sort of like the Prince and the Pauper.
Perhaps he already does this. In which case, never mind. :)
I don't think the issue raised deals with his ability to "understand
the average Wikipedian."
I dont think he has a problem with that at all. The issues were about
clarification of his role (or not), a constitution or a monarchy, and
consistent usage of powers, such that we know to consult him when we
draft a policy change, and not wait until six months later when he
gets a chance to find out about it.
In the current debate over ATT, no other individual could make such
unilateral steps as he did without prior consultation and consensus
building. The fact that he can is of course a matter which the
community wants to more fully understand in a constitutional way,
while of course not wanting to be perceived as attacking or
criticizing him.
-Stevertigo