Wikipedia bans Scientology from editing Scientology entries

Wikipedia has banned people using the Church of Scientology’s computers from changing Wikipedia articles about Scientology and its critics.

The site's administrators imposed the ban after concluding that church members have been altering articles related to Scientology to promote their own interests.

It is believed to be the first time that Wikipedia has banned such a large group. Scientology spokesman Tommy Davis said the church is preparing a statement in response.

Wikipedia is billed as “the free encyclopedia that anyone can edit.” Many Wikipedia entries are in a constant state of flux as they are edited and re-edited, and the site's many volunteers and administrators attempt to keep an eye out for bias.

After a lengthy internal review, Wikipedia’s “Arbitration Committee” of experienced volunteer editors voted to block changes from all IP addresses owned or operated by the Church of Scientology and its associates.

“Up to a dozen long-time Wikipedians concluded that not much good has come from this range of computers,” said Wikipedia spokesman Jay Walsh.

The committee’s discussions are in an online posting on Wikipedia. In that posting, the site’s administrators say they have noticed a trend of what they called “edit wars” – repeated additions and deletions – to entries regarding Scientology.

Wikipedia has blocked IP addresses for certain congressional offices and even, temporarily, the Department of Justice, when Wikipedia's volunteer editors said found abuses coming from IP addresses affiliated with those offices.

-- Mike Brassfield, Times staff writer

Comments

[Mr. Ed]

The internet is the most fascinating and powerful – yet most dangerous and abused – tool of modern technology. I’m reminded of a line from Jurassic Park:

“We were so consumed with whether or not we could, that we didn’t stop to consider whether or not we should.”

Thanks to the unregulated internet, a culpable media, and the upcoming government control of airwaves that has slipped right past everyone’s eyes… our nation is in for a terrible ride.

I’m reminded of another line from the movie JFK:

“How do you know who your daddy is; ‘cause your mama told you so.”

May God help us all.

[S.F.]

God Fearing Church people would NEVER say or edit something for their own earthly gains... Then again, Scientolgoly is neither a "Church" or based upon a belief in "God".

[S.F.]

oooops, "Scientology"

[whyman]

There are over 350 million websites on the internet that you can go to. Instead of trying to change something or someone to fit your agenda, use your freedom to go somewhere else or create your own.

[beavis]

they are sooooo creepy. they come in my store all the time and they all seem so empty.

[windowsugar]

SEE?? YOU CAN SMELL I MEAN TELL a scientologist when you see one. They're SO indoctrinated they are like teco employees and tampa residents who are judges. YOU CANNOT TELL THEM ANYTHING IS WRONG or twisted or corrupt or they turn on you like wild banshee animals with rabies. Seriously.\
Scientology is OBVIOUSLY NOT ABOUT LOVE people.

[windowsugar]

you are RIGHT, mr. ed.

Anyway, this is like the pot calling the kettle black. Wiki is no better than stupidology.

[GeorginaMae]

S.F. - a "church" is merely a congregation, if you mean "Christ's church" (those who gather in Jesus' name), then , yes, you are correct - Scientology is not a gathering of Christians - BUT still can be considered a church.

[DR]

All religions are a joke until proven otherwise. None have. Scientology is the same as any other religion, just has a different story.

[JC50]

Good to see there are organizations that are standing up to the cult and putting them in their place.

[ToddRules]

Ahhhh yes--- the cult known as Scientology trying to "clear" things up with Wikipedia. Trying to "audit" things as usual are we ?? Just some more of their diuretics, or is that dianetics ?? Where are those creatures with trippy sounding names coming from in outer space ?? L. Ron Hubbard sure had his cult followers fooled...