The existence and maintenance of Wikipedia can been seen as a true web2.0 phenomenon. First seen as an idea that would never work, it is now integrated into the lives of everyday Internet users. If one wanted to learn more about a certain topic, it is very likely that he/she would search it up on Wikipedia. As a matter of fact, Wikipedia pages are usually one of the top 5 links that will appear on search engine results.
One reason why Wikipedia managed to work so well was the "spontaneous division of labour" that Shirky mentions (118). An article only needs to be started and contributions will be made by numerous individuals who are or feel they are knowledgeable in the subject.
The type of motivation that influences contribution is not of monetary value; it is the existence of inadequate material that motivates individuals to feel the need to change the articles. Shirky argues that people are more likely to make improvements on something that is done poorly rather than make something great from scratch. In addition, the feeling of being able to offer your own knowledge without being restricted is a strong one. The freedom that Wikipedia gives to its users creates a form of radical trust. Being able to freely operate within a given space creates some structure to the site without placing too much control over users and content.
The constant editing and adding of information makes an article "a process, not a product" (119). The main reason why Wikipedia is going to stick around for awhile is that it never gets finished. It is its imperfect quality that will maintain its survival. Perhaps it utilizes well our weakness: constant dissatisfaction. Human being's innate desire for perfection may just be the very reason why people continue to read, re-read, edit, and re-edit Wikipedia.
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