[WikiEN-l] original research

[steven l. rubenstein]

I think the policy "no original research" is one of our most important 
policies, and essential to the integrity of our project as an 
encyclopedia.  Recently Jimbo pointed out that the policy was originally 
developed to deal with physics cranks, but that it could apply to history 
as well -- but perhaps, with some difficulty.  I agree that the policy 
should apply to all forms of research.  I've been thinking about the way 
the policy is formulated and think it can be improved.  I have mad ea 
suggestion on the talk page, and I'd appreciate comments:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia_talk:No_original_research#On_secondary_sources

I am very confident of the substantive point I am trying to make, but less 
confident about the wording.  Whether I am right or wrong, this issue 
requires some debate now because a number of people have expressed 
confusion about our policy,


Steve

Steven L. Rubenstein
Associate Professor
Department of Sociology and Anthropology
Bentley Annex
Ohio University
Athens, Ohio 45701