Plagiarism

As mentioned in the textbook THINK by Judith A. Boss, the internet has become an enormous part of research. At the same time, the internet has also made it easier for students to commit plagiarism. The book defines plagiarism as “fraudulent copying that involves deception and the intent to mislead the reader.” (361) Two articles discuss plagiarism and what the academic community should do about it. Brook J Sadler argues that plagiarism is wrong and should be severely penalized, while Russell Hunt views plagiarism as a way for the academic community should rethink ways that encourage plagiarism. I feel like both are strong arguments, and if I were to listen to both present their arguments in person, I would definitely think Sadler’s argument was stronger because there’s so many points he makes and highlights the seriousness of the problem. I feel like Hunt’s argument is stronger because it is more positive and suggests students are to learn about plagiarism and take workshops to avoid it as opposed to just threatening them with failing.