There has been a lot of drama and outrage the past week or so (I’ve kind of lost track of the time) over not only the issue of plagiarism, but the lack of outcry by other authors. I have seen some really ugly remarks on various loops and blogs painting any author who did not stand up and join the hunt with the same brush as the accused plagiarist.
I’m here to say plagiarism is wrong. Parking in a handicap spot when you’re not (handicapped) is wrong. “Borrowing” copyrighted images from an Internet page and posting them on your own site or blog is wrong. Stealing ideas is wrong. Posting a personal letter from some one who did not give you permission to do so is wrong (and contrary to what I’ve seen posted on at least one blog, a violation of copyright law). All of these things are wrong, and some illegal. But does that mean, that public flogging of the perpetrator then becomes right? Do I want to pick up a tomato and join in?
Hester Prynne was forced to wear a scarlet letter so all would know her sin and could treat her accordingly. Public liars at one time risked the stocks (and tomatoes). Our society did away with those things many years ago. It’s nice to see the Internet has filled that hole.
Well said!
by Gabrielle January 17th, 2008 at 12:25 pmAmen…….it’s why I keep my head down, nose to the proverbial grindstone (most of the time :) )
by Amie January 17th, 2008 at 5:25 pmIn time, Hester Prynne gained a certain immunity. Everyone knew her sin. It was the people who had thrown stones who had to be careful, lest anyone learn they weren’t perfect either…
by Paula Reed January 17th, 2008 at 6:02 pm