Plagiarism

[michaelmt1]

At what point does using a concept for a story become Plagiarism.

I read a story where some one used a computer program to program humans I like the concept and would like to use it at some time but is this Plagiarism.


Im really not sure when some thing will constitute this. If I use a concept like that should i credit the concept?

What do you all think ?


Mike

 

[punkrockpoet]

there's a difference between an "homage" and plagiarism.

if you want to write something in a style or topic someone else has already used, it can be an "homage"

however, if you blatantly copy (and i stress the word "copy") someone elses work and put your name on it, thats plagiarism.

 

[Weird Harold]

At what point does using a concept for a story become Plagiarism.

I read a story where some one used a computer program to program humans I like the concept and would like to use it at some time but is this Plagiarism.

If you're thinking of the "Master PC" concept, that's an "Open Universe." You can write a story using your characters and explore what they would do with the Master PC program.

If you're just thinking of a general "computer programmed to hypnotize user" sort of story, as long as you use your characters and your plot, even if the "technical" details of how the programming is accomplished are basically the same.

Copying a concept isn't plagiarism; Copying another authors actual words or plot is.

 

[michaelmt1]

Thanks

"Master PC" it was Harold. Thanks for the comments I have to admit that Master PC is a bit like a computer in the Well World series as well.


Mike

 

[Weird Harold]

Re: Thanks

"Master PC" it was Harold. Thanks for the comments I have to admit that Master PC is a bit like a computer in the Well World series as well.


Mike

Check out http://www.asstr.org/~mcstories/index.html and look for J R Parz's Author Page. I believe he's the founder of the Master PC "Universe" and there are some comments there about writing stories set in that universe.