Wikipedia aims to be a neutral compilation of verifiable, established facts.
This means:
- Neutral
- Wikipedia does not judge or advocate specific views or opinions, or make determinations on "correctness". Differing views must be presented without bias.
- Compilation
- Wikipedia is an encyclopedia, and not an indiscriminate collection of information. There is a process which results in articles that are useful for readers seeking overview or detail.
- Verifiable
- Information must be realistically verifiable, including being cited from reliable sources.
- Established
- Original ideas, interpretations, or research cannot be verified, and thus are inappropriate for Wikipedia. Wikipedia is not a primary source; it strives to be a tertiary source.
- Facts
- Wikipedia is about facts, not opinions. Articles may state, neutrally and factually, which people hold what opinions, but must not judge.