Roe v. Wade: The Wikipedia v. Encyclopedia Britannica Online

The web-based Wikipedia is not constrained by length restrictions which traditional paper-based, and allows for hyperlinking which connects a particular article to other related articles. The Wikipedia makes use of hyperlinking more extensively than the Encyclopedia Britannica Online. Subsequently, the Wikipedia is more current and is able to cover a specific topic greater depth and breadth.

The Wikipedia article on ‘Roe v. Wade’ contains more than 100 hyperlinks. These hyperlinks connect the article to a myriad of related topics including ‘Planned Parenthood v. Casey’, abortion and the U.S. Supreme Court.On the other hand, the article on the Encyclopedia Britannica Online contains only one hyperlink to ‘Planned Parenthood v. Casey’ The Wikipedia article on ‘Roe v. Wade’ is also more current and is updated on almost a daily basis¹. The article on ‘Roe v. Wade on the Encyclopedia Britannica Online does not display such information and only indicates that the information is part of the encyclopedia’s 2006 Edition. This example illustrates the greater depth, breadth with which the Wikipedia is able to cover a specific topic.

The information on the Wikipedia is also free and accessible via the internet. In contrast, a subscription or purchase is required to view articles on the Encyclopedia Britannica Online, after a free 30 day trial.