slashdot

One of the earliest and arguably most successful examples of Internet democracy. The self-proclaimed "news for geeks" site (this can have a bad connotation for some, and a good one for others) features news that may have interest to Internet junkies. Unlike the dictatorship-like models that most web sites use, Slashdot is a functional democracy. The officials post news, and it is commented upon by users. However, some also believe that this use of democracy is also a bad thing. Slashdot is somewhat famous for its irrelevant and highly opinionated comments from members. Oftentimes, the information presented by said members is inaccurate and based on incorrect understanding. This has led to heated discussions as to whether or not Slashdot, is in fact, a viable democracy; however, thus far, it appears that the answer is for the most part "yes". It does, in fact, function as a democracy, as flame-ridden and questionable as its comments may be. Those who expect a site lacking boilerplate may be disappointed, but so far, no other Internet democracy has been as successfully active as Slashdot. While mumblings about more sites fashioned off it have been heard, most of such sites fail because they do not realize that democracy does not necessarily mean quality. It is a lesson that Slashdot teaches, however revolutionary it may be.