John Seigenthaler Sr. Criticises Wikipedia

EsonLinji writes "John Seigenthaler Sr, a former assistant to Robert Kennedy, has written a commentary in USA Today expressing outrage at a libelous biography that appeared on Wikipedia that suggested he was involved with the assasination of JFK and spent more than a decade in Russia. His commentary also takes aim at internet providers and the laws that allow them to act as common carriers without liability for the actions of their users."

Comments

Re:Standard wikipedia response

[aussie_a]

Actually when the case is libel, he doesn't have to merely put up with it or change it. Having said that, I disagree with his claim that content hosts should be held responsible for what users (or customers) place on their content. If they're made aware of it, then I can see an argument being made, but to have to screen every single post/change/webpage would be infeasible.

Re:Whatever

[$RANDOMLUSER]

> Yes, so when I write an expose' in your local paper alleging your repeated involvement in group orgies with preschoolers, I'm sure you'll be happy I have the right to commit libel.

I knew someone was going to say that.

No. My local newspaper purports to be accurate and non-libelous. Wikipedia does not. The difference (almost) is between something in a newspaper, and something scribbled on a bathroom wall.

Meanwhile, you have the right to commit libel, as I have the right to sue you for it, if I can prove that you said it. Seigenthaler has the same option. What he is advocating is prior restraint.