Mark Ryan wrote:
But then along come Florence and Jimbo and tell us that it *is* a political event, that it was chosen because it can be used to campaign for human rights in Egypt; that it can bring positive change to the people of Egypt.
Just to clarify a few points...
1. I don't think it is a political event, except in the broad sense that Wikipedia itself is "political" in terms of being a statement that every thoughtful and kind individual has a fundamental human right to participate in the creation of knowledge.
2. I didn't say anything about why it was chosen, because I had nothing to do with the selection... not even on the committee, didn't have a vote, didn't make any public comments, etc. I was just an observer like everyone else.
3. I doubt very much if this event alone will bring about any positive changes in Egypt or anywhere else. But I am certain that Wikipedia itself is already making positive changes all over the world, and this event supports Wikipedia.
4. I am very supportive of those who have concerns about holding Wikimania in problematic places, wherever those might be. I am torn between the idea that we should always avoid them, versus the idea that we should deliberately seek them out. There are merits to both positions I think... within limits.
--Jimbo