Plagiarism

 **Plagiarism** is defined in Wikipedia as "the wrongful appropriation, close imitation, or purloining and publication, of another author's language, thoughts, ideas, or expressions, and the representation of them as one's own original work."[|[1]][|[2]] The modern concept of plagiarism as immoral and originality as an ideal emerged in Europe only in the 18th century, while in the previous centuries authors and artists were encouraged to "copy the masters as closely as possible" and avoid "unnecessary invention."[3][4][5][6][7] In the 18th century new morals have been institutionalized and enforced prominently in the sectors of academia and journalism, where plagiarism is now considered academic dishonesty and a breach of journalistic ethics, subject to sanctions like expulsion and other severe career damage. Not so in the arts, which have resisted in their long-established tradition of copying as a fundamental practice of the creative process, with plagiarism being still hugely tolerated by 21st century artists.[8][9] Plagiarism is not a crime but is disapproved more on the grounds of moral offence.[|[]3[|]][|[]10[|]]" from 2010 Wikipedia definition of Plagiarism

Plagiarism is derived from the Latin word plagiarius (literally kidnapper) coming from the Latin root plaga (which means to snare or net). Originally termed in Roman times by the poet Martial a Latin Poet from Hispania on the Iberian Peninsula. The term migrated to the English language in 1615 – 1625 after being introduced in 1601 when dramatist Ben Jonson coined the term plagiary being someone’s guilt of literary theft. Interesting enough prior to the 18th century plagiarism was considered not only acceptable but fashionable. At the time original literature was considered public or common properties (publica materies) and the closer one copied the “masters”, the finer that their work was considered. It was viewed that it was unnecessary to originate literary compositions. The same was true for other art as well such as music painting and sculpture. The above evolution of ideals in the beliefs of our modern society could possibly due to the move to individualism and capitalism. Strangely enough in the arts it is still tolerated to copy the “masters” pieces even now in modern day. Although like copyright, plagiarism is considered to be the theft of someone’s previous writing, it is rarely if at all mentioned in either criminal or civil law. In the modern day due to the advent of digital technology there seems to be a move towards being more strict in the consideration of intellectual property. The concept of plagiarism is not considered the same as copyright infringement even though they seem to relate to the same act. In simple terms copyright is the infringement or violation of the rights of the copyright holder when used without the holders consent, while plagiarism is considered more of a violation to the writers moral rights or reputation and being an unfair advantage without giving credit to the author. Plagiarism not only is the direct copying of text but the taking of another person's idea and claiming it as your own.

Within the academic and journalistic profession, plagiarism is considered academic dishonesty and can ultimately result in the disciplinary action, suspension or even dismissal from their profession. Their unwritten code of conduct often places them in a court of their peers and can lead to loss of credibility and integrity. Even more stringent rules are put in place for students, particularly in the post secondary levels ranging from failing the paper to being expelled from the class. For more information on Academic Plagiarism see Northern Lights College Plagiarism Seminar in text and PowerPoint or Plagiarism Seminar video

Wikipedia.org "Plagiarism" October 22, 2010

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