When you think of plagiarism, you tend to think of students frantically trying to finish a paper at the last minute, choosing to ‘borrow’ a paragraph or two from some of the research that they found. But scientists? Professional researchers that risk losing their reputations, all for the sake of a publication?
Well, it’s true. Nature News reports that journal publishers are now much more aware of the potential widespread plagiarism in academic writing these days. With today’s technology, it’s not only easier to plagiarize, but even easier to detect already-publication material. Using the same software developed for use with student work (Turnitin – used here on campus), editors are armed with a powerful means to uncover repurposed works.
Why is checking important? In the past several years, there have been some high-profile cases of journals having to retract articles, damaging reputations of the publishers and authors. Furthermore, depending on the discipline, such as the medical field, there are other dangers as well.
Check out the full story: Journals Step Up Plagiarism Policing – Nature News
Thanks to Barb for the link!
Interesting article. I didn’t know such software existed.