Blogger Code of Conduct
For everyone managing a blog, here is a conversation worth watching- Tim O’Reilly (who reportedly coined the phrase 2.0) mentioned bloggers should have a code of conduct. In the 2.0 spirit, Jimmy Wales from Wikipedia quickly started developing one.
The new online magazine, Social Computing is covering the evolution of the rules at: Jimmy Wales of Wikia on ‘The Blogger’s Code of Conduct’. To be honest, its a common sense list, but the question in my mind is - is this the end of the ‘wild west mentality’ in some blogging where they acted above the rules of the more established media or will it be ignored? What do you think?
Karyn May 3
Is Wales’ list supposed to be a universal code of conduct, or one that blog managers can implement if they choose to?
Ben Ostrowsky May 3
Some blogs aim at journalism; some succeed. Some aim at gonzo journalism; many succeed. And most blogs owe more to Pepys than to Woodward and Bernstein: they’re diaries, not news outlets.
Having said that, I think it’s a Good Thing to disclose one’s influences, whether cultural, political, financial, or otherwise. Knowing your background, your readers can develop a more trustworthy relationship with you. This is true of both personal and organizational blogs.
Diana May 3
Suppose to be everyone, I believe. But, that is my exact question, will there be a ‘Blogger Court’ like Judge Judy for people who don’t follow? I don’t think there are real enough implications for ignoring the list and continuing on the path of ‘gonzo journalism’ as Ben perfectly coined it.