Wikipedia:Policy doesn't override logic

Policies are created to streamline the editing process. They should not be applied equally in every situation, and certainly should not be used in a manner that inhibits the growth of an article. Wikipedia is not a paper encyclopedia and it is not hindered by the same limitations that physical media has. Wikipedia can become much more of a resource than any paper encyclopedia were to be free of the shackles of false limitations.

Wikipedia policy occasionally acts as a limiting force. If applied correctly, policies should not be a hindrance. For example, policies outlining the usage of regional variations of English. We could have had a discussion and come to the conclusion that American English was the best option and dictated that every article be written in American English. This would be exactly the same as all other Wikipedia policy, it would be enforced as such, and yet many editors (specifically those who do not speak American English) would be angered by such a move. Instead, articles that deal with specific regions are written in the variation of English native to that region. This is a rule that almost doesn't need to exist; it is a conclusion many editors across many articles could come to independently. A good rule should only enforce logical behavior.

These language policies are a good example of Wikipedia policy that is logical and works well. However, we should not assume that all policy is perfect. If a logical argument appears to prove an editor's point, quoting from Wikipedia policy should not be a nuclear option that magically sets aside reason. Policies should be taken for what they truly are: guidelines. They are not infallible rules and should never be taken as such.

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