Stephen Downes

"Networks 'require' openness," summarizes Doug Belshaw. "Everyone needs to be able to take part and see themselves as part of the network helping enable the bigger thing." But, "is 'common purpose' necessary in working openly? Does everyone have to be working towards the same ends?" No. Even if we have different objectives, "we can all talk about something which is important to all of us." This, though, I would characterize as cooperation rather than collaboration. It's an important distinction.