The Origin of Plagiarism

The Origin of Plagiarism

We must discuss a word not too popular in the Western world and perhaps abroad and it’s plagiarism. According to the Merriam Dictionary (1828) the origin of plagiarism comes from the Latin word, “kidnap.” Plagiarism is simply using someone else’s words or any part of their content without their permission or proper citation.

Any person who writes, blogs, dictates, should know what plagiarism is and have access to a plagiarism tool. Actually, plagiarism begins at home when students are conducting homework. It’s better understood at the middle school level when students begin to gather information and collect references. Why is plagiarism a violation? Because it is a copyright regulation.

Students are introduced to the term because it has serious implications of civil liabilities and potential fines. However, to use the pictures or any part of the content and not give credit to its original writer is plagiarism.

the origin of plagiarism

Many students are familiar with the term but most laypersons are not. I take that back, even if you’re not a writer, most people have heard of the term. They may not know what it means or how it would affect their life, but it is a term that is age-old in the academic domain.

The Origin of Plagiarism

If you are a budding writer, I suggest you learn what plagiarism is and isn’t and strive never to violate it. The violations can have disturbing results.

Case in point: My nephew attended one of the major universities which I won’t name here. Further, to protect his identity, let’s say his name is Kevin. Kevin may not have been privy to the copyright laws of plagiarism or so he contends but on a campus setting, I’m sure the word was thrown around. He apparently didn’t prepare for the paper due but felt he could wing it by abducting the work of someone else and turned it in.

I don’t know if he used each word verbatim but I know he didn’t conduct a plagiarism check using the university’s tool at his disposal. Had he used it would not have violated plagiarism and suspended from school. Plagiarism is a serious academic offense. The violations can have disturbing results.

Don’t Let This Happen to You!!

The Origin of Plagiarism

Ironically, the penalty could have been worse on a civil level because he breached copyright legislation. He got off easy. Your presence here gives you access to a free plagiarism tool to use. You’ll have access to this tool to check all of your written work going forward.

Be Mindful to Cite Your Work!

The Origin of PlagiarismDid you know that you could plagiarize a work and not remain in an infraction of the copyright? Similarly, you can be in violation of a copyright and not have been plagiarizing. It is actually not that difficult to comprehend.

Let’s demonstrate you are making use of Patrick Henry’s famous words from his account, “Give me liberty or give me death,” in a paper and you didn’t cite him credit for it.  Mr. Patrick Henry’s words are not copyrighted due to the fact they are in the public domain. However, you did plagiarize if you attempt to pass his words off as your own. Do you see the difference? Plagiarism is a big deal. There is a free plagiarism tool available here!!!

The drawbacks to plagiarism:

  • Not citing the work of the originator properly
  • It has extensive consequences and civil liabilities
  • Fines are administered for lack of compliance
  • Your reputation is at stake
Give Credit Where Credit is DUE!

Plagiarism is a powerful term that packs a great hit when violated. Consequently, whether the motivation is intentional or not, when the original writers work is not acknowledged is an intellectual offense. Plagiarism is a menacing word. However, not attributing the writer of the work will certainly not maintain a person immune from breaching copyright law.

Due to the nature of copyright laws, it’s best to document all references and input in your work. Plagiarism is not a dirty word but clean up your work with this handy tool.

Reference:

  1. (March 3, 2020). Colonial Williamsburg. https://www.colonialwilliamsburg.org/learn/deep-dives/give-me-liberty-or-give-me-death/
  2. (1828). Merriam Dictionary. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/plagiarism#:~:text=The%20Kidnapping%20Roots%20of%20Plagiarize,-If%20schools%20wish&text=Plagiarize%20(and%20plagiarism)%20comes%20from,than%20the%20children%2C%20of%20another.