The Chosen One
Summary
Host PJ Vogt investigates how Wikipedia selects its iconic anatomy images, specifically the "most viewed penis" on Earth. Interviewing veteran editor Lane Raspberry, the episode explores the rigorous, often contentious editorial process behind these choices and Wikipedia’s role as a global sex education resource. The discussion also touches on the risks editors face, including imprisonment in restrictive regimes, highlighting the site's commitment to open access despite political pressures.
Topics discussed
Intro, listener request for Japan stories, and sponsor ads
Listener question: Who is the penis on Wikipedia?
LabCorp On Demand ad and listener health stories
Matic robot vacuum advertisement
The history of Wikipedia's creation and early days
Interview with Lane Rasberry, Wikipedia data scientist
How Wikipedia images are selected and discussed
The cultural impact of the Wikipedia penis image
Debates over representation and censorship on Wikipedia
Age restrictions, harassment, and risks for editors
Sponsor ads: Vanguard, Notability, and Quince
The mystery of the anonymous penis uploader
The history of the Wikipedia penis image selection
Criteria for the chosen image: technical and aesthetic
Fact-checking note and show credits
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