What is the purpose of the 'request for comment' (RfC) process in Wikipedia?

The 'request for comment' (RfC) process on Wikipedia is a formal method for seeking community input on specific issues or disputes. It's used when editors are unable to reach a consensus through normal discussion on an article's talk page. The purpose of an RfC is to solicit opinions from a wider range of editors, providing a more representative sample of community views. The RfC process involves clearly stating the issue in question, presenting the relevant arguments and evidence, and then inviting other editors to comment on the proposed solutions. RfCs are typically used to resolve content disputes, policy interpretations, or questions about notability. The goal is to achieve a clear consensus that can be used to guide future editing decisions. RfCs are advertised to the broader Wikipedia community, ensuring that a diverse range of editors have the opportunity to participate. The outcome of an RfC is typically determined by evaluating the strength of the arguments presented, rather than simply counting votes. A well-structured and neutrally worded RfC can be an effective way to resolve difficult disputes and ensure that Wikipedia's content reflects the consensus of the community.