Plagiarism occurs when an individual uses the ideas, words, opinions, creative expressions or research of another person as if they were his or her own original ideas. It can take many forms. One common example is where a student uses another person’s work without using quotation marks around the words and, clearly documenting the source. Failure to use quotation marks and, clear citation of the source implies that the work is your own (Yates, 2007).

Plagiarism is a serious abuseof academic integrity since it is viewed as an academic crime. Academic integrity entails the quest for scholarly activities in an honest, open and, responsible way (Yates, 2007). It involves students observing personal integrity, rights and, dignity while doing their academic work so that they can become successful from the fruits of their own efforts. Hence, plagiarism which is viewed as cheating violates the rules of academic integrity.

Plagiarism and academic are closely related to some biblical principles. Academic integrity involves one seeking to portray God’s character of righteousness, holiness, steadfast love and, faithfulness (“Code of Academic”, n.d.). Academic integrity requires honesty and, truthful speaking. Proverbs 12:19 says “truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue is but for a moment”. The bible warns us of dishonesty. Academic integrity also implies respect for other people’s property. The tenth commandment in Exodus 20:17 warn us against coveting another person’s property. Hence, students should at all times respect other people’s work while undertaking their scholarly activities.

Integrity is required in all aspects of our lives. Observing academic integrity will make one have a habit of honesty at all times. Globally, the late Nelson Mandela stood out as one of the leaders with the highest degree of integrity.After serving 27 years in prison and, later taking the reins of power in South Africa, Mandela never bothered to retaliate on his oppressors. Instead, he focused on building a united nation. He showed the whole world that he was trully a man of unblemished integrity.

References

Code of Academic Integrity. (n.d.). Rochester College. Retrieved April 8, 2014, from      http://www.rc.edu/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Code-of-Academic-Integrity-        rev063010.pdf

Yates, W. (2007). Academic integrity in the internet age. Ann Arbor, MI: ProQuest.