The spikess/Empress Galaxia case poll

[bogwitch]

There appears to be a split in consensus regarding the decision this community should make in this case. In the interest of fairness, and to take some of the pressure off the moderators, it was decided that a poll might be the best way forward regarding this issue.

Poll The brynspikess/Empress Galaxia case

Comments

[darkhavens]

I am of the opinion that she is guilty of plagiarism, though without intent, and for that reason alone think the 'watch' list is the best option.

[entrenous88]

I voted for the "watch list" placement. Part of my rationale in choosing this option is because I think spikess has been extremely cooperative and civil throughout this entire investigation, and I appreciate her willingness to abide by the community's & moderators' decision.

I will say, though, that I think if there were some median option -- between the harshly worded "convicted plagiarist" (and yes, I know that's what's on the info page, but even so) and the "watch list of ... involved with cases of plagiarism but not actually guilty of it" I would choose that third option -- not different from the "watch list" in its result, but different in how that option would categorize this matter.

That is, if it was available I would choose an option that recognizes that this situation is an example of plagiarism, but also that it is not a malicious instance, that it is a situation that is more benign than deliberate plagiarism, and, finally, that this presented a far less clear-cut example than we usually imagine when we consider the concept

[missmurchison]

I also voted for the watch list because lack of intent does not mean that plagiarism has not occurred, as any teacher can attest. This is a difficult case, and thank you again for leading this in a rational and calm manner.

[liz_marcs]

I feel I have to vote for plagiarism.

I know I've been waffling between "watch list" and "plagiarism" list, but upon taking time to think about it, I have to go down on the harsher side.

My problem still remains was that BillK was not even aware that his idea was even borrowed (let alone passages used almost word-for-word) until a reader contact him. Furthermmore, I have issues with the fact that spikess said she had permission when initially confronted, when in fact she did not

[wesleysgirl]

I completely agree.