Wales snaps & leaves interview after host asks, ‘You’re Wikipedia’s Founder or Co-Founder?’
In a shocking turn of events, Jimmy Wales, the founder of Wikipedia, lost his cool during a podcast interview when the host asked him if he was the founder or co-founder of the online encyclopedia. The incident has sparked a heated debate about the role of Larry Sanger, who is often credited as the co-founder of Wikipedia. Wales has previously contested Sanger’s contributions to the project, and it seems that the topic is still a sensitive one for him.
The interview, which was supposed to be a conversation about Wikipedia and its impact on the world, took a dramatic turn when the host asked Wales to clarify his role in the founding of the website. Wales, who had introduced himself as the founder of Wikipedia, was taken aback by the question and responded angrily. “It’s the dumbest question in the world,” he said, his voice rising in frustration.
The host, seemingly taken aback by Wales’ reaction, tried to explain that he was just trying to clarify the facts. However, Wales was having none of it. He repeated his statement, emphasizing that he was indeed the founder of Wikipedia, and that the question was unnecessary and ignorant. When the host pressed on, asking Wales to acknowledge Sanger’s role in the founding of the website, Wales had had enough.
In a dramatic gesture, Wales stood up and walked out of the interview, leaving the host and the audience stunned. The whole incident lasted less than a minute, but it has sparked a lot of debate and discussion about the role of Sanger in the founding of Wikipedia.
For those who may not know, Larry Sanger is often credited as the co-founder of Wikipedia, along with Jimmy Wales. However, Wales has previously contested Sanger’s contributions to the project, claiming that Sanger’s role was not as significant as he has made it out to be. Sanger, on the other hand, has maintained that he was an equal partner in the founding of Wikipedia, and that his contributions were invaluable to the project’s success.
The debate about the role of Sanger in the founding of Wikipedia is not new. It has been ongoing for many years, with both sides presenting their own version of events. However, the incident during the podcast interview has brought the issue back into the spotlight, with many people weighing in on the matter.
Some have come to Wales’ defense, arguing that he is indeed the founder of Wikipedia, and that Sanger’s contributions were not as significant as he claims. Others have sided with Sanger, arguing that he was an equal partner in the founding of the website, and that his contributions should be recognized.
Regardless of who is right or wrong, the incident during the podcast interview has highlighted the sensitive nature of the topic. It is clear that Wales is passionate about his role in the founding of Wikipedia, and that he is not willing to share the credit with anyone. However, it is also important to recognize the contributions of others who have worked on the project over the years, including Sanger.
In the end, the incident during the podcast interview has sparked an important conversation about the role of contributors in the founding of Wikipedia. While Wales may be the founder of the website, it is clear that many others have played a significant role in its development and success. Perhaps it is time for Wales to acknowledge the contributions of others, including Sanger, and to recognize the importance of collaboration and teamwork in the founding of Wikipedia.
The video of the incident has gone viral, with many people sharing it on social media and weighing in on the debate. It is a reminder that even the most successful and influential people can have sensitive spots, and that the topic of credit and recognition can be a contentious one.
In conclusion, the incident during the podcast interview has highlighted the sensitive nature of the topic of credit and recognition in the founding of Wikipedia. While Jimmy Wales may be the founder of the website, it is clear that others, including Larry Sanger, have played a significant role in its development and success. Perhaps it is time for Wales to acknowledge the contributions of others and to recognize the importance of collaboration and teamwork in the founding of Wikipedia.
