Can you trust Wikipedia? Who actually controls the world's largest online encyclopedia, and how has it shaped the way we access information?

On this episode of Bookum Author Talks, we sit down with journalist and author Richard Cooke to discuss his book, The Last Best Place on the Internet: A Human History of Wikipedia, and explore the fascinating history, people, and ideas behind one of the most influential projects in internet history.

From Wikipedia founders Jimmy Wales and Larry Sanger to the super editors who dedicate thousands of hours to building and maintaining the encyclopedia, Richard takes us inside the world of Wikipedia. We discuss how it started, why it remains free, how its volunteer editors operate, and the ongoing debate surrounding truth, neutrality, and reliable information.

We also explore Wikipedia's relationship with artificial intelligence, the rise of platforms like ChatGPT and Elon Musk's Grokipedia, Western bias, the underrepresentation of women, misinformation, and the future of human knowledge.

Plus, Richard shares some of the strangest Wikipedia rabbit holes he discovered during his research and offers insight into the writing, research, and interview process behind his book.

Whether you have spent hours exploring Wikipedia or simply use it to answer everyday questions, this conversation will make you think differently about the information we find online.

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Last Best Place on the Internet: A Human History of Wikipedia by Richard Cooke explores the people, culture, and ideas behind Wikipedia and its place in the history of the internet.

ABOUT BOOKUM AUTHOR TALKS

Bookum Author Talks brings you conversations with authors, journalists, entrepreneurs, and creators about the stories behind their books, their careers, and the ideas that shape our world.

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On this episode of Bookum Author Talks, we sit down with music journalist and author John McKie to discuss Prince's extraordinary career and the stories behind his music, including Purple Rain and Sign o' the Times.

We talk about Prince's musical influences, his competitiveness with Michael Jackson and Madonna, his time growing up in Minneapolis, and his incredible commitment to his craft. John also shares insights into Prince's creative process, his relationship with The Revolution, his filmmaking career, his legendary Super Bowl halftime show, and his fight to own and control his music.

We also discuss how John researched and wrote about one of music's most fascinating artists, including the interviews and stories that helped bring Prince's legacy to life.

Whether you are a longtime Prince fan or interested in the history behind some of music's most iconic artists, this conversation offers a closer look at the man behind the music.

Listen to Bookum Author Talks for more conversations with authors, journalists, and storytellers about the people, ideas, and stories that shape our world.

Download Bookum and start your book club today at https://www.bookumapp.com

This Podcast is to brought you by Bookum - The book communities NEW and BEST way to host dynamic online book clubs.

Download the App and Start your Book club today at www.bookumapp.com

Catch all of conversations live on the Bookum App Nooks!