Open To Debate Talks To Wikipedia Founder

In this week’s episode of the podcast Open to Debate, Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales discusses, among other things, how Wikipedia can integrate Artificial Intelligence and responds to backlash from its volunteer moderators.

Wikipedia is a free, multilingual, online encyclopedia that is collaboratively created and maintained by volunteer editors from around the world. It aims to make the sum of all human knowledge freely available to everyone and is supported by the non-profit Wikimedia Foundation. Anyone can edit an article, making it a valuable resource for getting a general overview of a topic, which can then be followed up with more detailed, reliable sources.

A non-profit organization that supports Wikipedia and its sister projects, such as Wiktionary, Wikisource, and Wikimedia Commons. Content is expected to be written from a neutral perspective, reflecting consensus among editors. Wikipedia exists in hundreds of languages, with increasing numbers of articles in languages other than English.

“When I heard about this proposal to put AI summaries at the top of articles, I thought, ‘Well, that sounds like a terrible idea.’” He says. “But actually, where I think it’s interesting is, are there things that aren’t that fun or interesting for humans to do that we could get a little support?”

He goes into a lot more detail in the episode and also talks about his new book, The Seven Rules of Trust.

Listen/watch the episode at YouTube, opentodebate.org, or wherever you get podcasts.

Open to Debate addresses a fundamental problem in America: the extreme polarization of our nation and our politics.

“We are the nation’s only nonpartisan, debate-driven media organization dedicated to bringing multiple viewpoints together for a constructive, balanced, respectful exchange of ideas.

A debate is a formal discussion on a controversial topic, where two or more opposing teams present arguments using reasoning and evidence to persuade an audience or judge. Teams are designated as the "proposition" (for the motion) and the "opposition" (against the motion), and each side presents their case, challenges the other's points, and provides rebuttals, all while adhering to a specific set of rules and time limits.

Debating teaches how to use persuasive language and evidence to make a compelling case. It requires thorough research on the topic to build strong, evidence-based arguments. Debaters develop public speaking and performance skills, such as making eye contact and speaking confidently. It enhances critical thinking skills by requiring participants to analyze different viewpoints and construct logical arguments. While challenging ideas, a formal debate should be conducted respectfully, avoiding personal attacks

Open to Debate is a platform for intellectually curious and open-minded individuals to engage with others who hold opposing views on complex issues. We know debate works to find common ground: On average, 32% of the Open to Debate audience changes their mind on contentious topics after hearing a debate.

Debate helps find common ground: On average, 32% of Open to Debate audiences change their minds on contentious topics after hearing a debate. That’s the power of debate done right, and at scale, it can change the direction we’re headed in America. Open to Debate is broadcast as a weekly public radio program, carried on NPR stations, including WNYC (#1 in the nation). Open To Debate won Best Podcast Of The Year in the 2025 Ear Worthy Awards.

One of their best episodes is the September 2025 show Open To Debate: How does the way we view masculinity in our society help or hurt men?

Open to Debate is made available as a podcast, video series, and digital platform, and records episodes with live audiences nationwide. Visit opentodebate.org to become a member, access an archive of more than 220 debates, and attend live events.