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The fact that plagiarism is difficult to deal with is only a problem if we agree that plagiarism itself is a problem. So why is it wrong to plagiarize?
Legal Problem
In a report made by Professor Claes Sandgren for the congress of the Swedish Association of University Teachers (SULF), it is stated that “…it is a legal problem as well as a problem of control. Cheating and plagiarism is no more allowed because it is done via the Internet instead of from a book or a printed magazine, but control has become much harder and it has become easier for those that cheat to steal
from each other.” (Universitetsläraren 17/2003)
Plagiarism is hence a legal problem. It is plainly illegal to plagiarize copyright protected texts without the consent of the copyright holder.
Academic Integrity (Credibility) .
The academic enterprise is by tradition built on a concept of intellectual honesty – the academic integrity. The trust the outside world places in education and science is in turn based on this belief. The presence of plagiarism may undermine this trust and therefore constitutes a basic threat to the academic integrity.
Knowledge
The presence of cheating is an immediate threat to the quality of education and science. A degree shall reflect the knowledge and skill that the holder possesses, and these attributes can not be acquired by way of cheating.
Fairness
The presence of plagiarism creates unfair conditions for students that work hard and honest. This is especially evident when students compete for employment or admittance to higher education when they have graduated from their present education.
The Working Environment .
Often it is unpleasant for a teacher to confront a student with suspicion of plagiarism. More so if one does not have access to the original source. The reverse is of course also true; if a student is suspected of plagiarism and happens to be innocent.
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