Why Volunteers Contribute

We're living in parallel realities with different "facts." Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales breaks down how trust eroded — and how we might restore it.

Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1251

What We Discuss with Jimmy Wales:

• Wikipedia succeeded where its predecessor failed because it prioritized making contribution enjoyable. Nobody truly works for free — people need intrinsic rewards like connecting with fellow enthusiasts, intellectual satisfaction, and the joy of building something meaningful together.
• The global crisis of trust stems from people living in parallel realities with different "facts." Productive discourse becomes impossible when opposing sides can't agree on basic data — like immigration numbers — before debating policy solutions.
• "Assume good faith" isn't just a Wikipedia policy — it's a life-changing mindset. Most people making mistakes aren't malicious; they need guidance. Approaching others with initial trust creates positive cycles, whether parenting teenagers or managing remote teams.
• Trust isn't built through perfection — it's built through transparency, especially when you have something to hide. Organizations that acknowledge mistakes, explain their processes, and openly work to improve earn more lasting credibility than those claiming flawlessness.
• Want to make a meaningful impact? Just start. The next five years will pass regardless of what you do — so test your ideas early, embrace potential failure as learning, and remember that trying something that doesn't work still beats endlessly planning something you never attempt.
• And much more...

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