A living encyclopedia has a different purpose from a conventional journal. It does not merely preserve what someone thought; it records what was learned, why it seemed credible, and what could change the conclusion.
Three layers of an entry
A useful research entry separates three kinds of writing:
- Reference: a description of what a source or body of evidence supports.
- Interpretation: an account of what that evidence may mean, including alternative explanations.
- Open questions: matters that have not been answered satisfactorily.
These layers can appear together in an article, but they should not be confused with one another.
Why revision matters
An initial conclusion may be reasonable when it is written and still require revision later. New evidence, better definitions, and sharper counterarguments can expose mistakes or reveal that a claim was too broad.
Preserving revision dates helps readers understand that articles are not presented as final or complete. A corrected interpretation is more useful than an unchanging statement of certainty.
Practical method
When recording a new subject, start with the original question. Identify the most reliable available sources. Explain the core concepts in clear language. Write a separate assessment of the arguments. Finally, identify what remains uncertain and connect the entry to related subjects.
Questions for further study
- What distinguishes evidence from an explanation built around that evidence?
- When do two sources actually disagree, rather than apply different definitions?
- How should authors acknowledge the limits of their own experience?
Editorial note: This is an introductory essay describing the editorial method of the archive. It does not represent a comprehensive treatment of epistemology.