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Merriam-Webster defines ethical as; conforming to accepted standards of conduct. By definition, a writer has to first know what the accepted standards of conduct are. Being human, some writers need to know that anything less will not be accepted. Within the "Writing Standards", Helium clearly states the importance of quality articles that must be original work, without offensive content. Plagiarism is cause for suspension of your account. The accepted standards of conduct are clear.

Helium relies on the skill and the honesty of writers to properly source information. Since this site is not merely a forum for airing your opinion, it is obviously important for all writers to verify that the information he or she uses to compose an article is credible. Formal citations are not required for Helium articles. In fact, formal citations as would be used in a n academic paper is frowned upon. For informational articles, it is best to include sources during the construction of an article such as; according to ________ there were ____ cases during 2006.

A discussion of ethics must include the subject of plagiarism. Current and former students should be well acquainted with the citation of sources, using specific formats. For Helium members, the most common form of plagiarism is simply copying another writer's work. The rules of plagiarism also apply to copying your own work. During rating and reviewing, a Helium member is obligated to notify administrators when he or she discovers plagiarism. Plagiarism will not be tolerated, in any form.

Sourcing information is a treasure hunt! For a writer who exclusively uses the Internet (as most of us do) for research, we must ferret out the credible information among a plethora of possible websites. Researchers must look for clues in the few words available in the search results, and the URL. The lightning speed of an Internet search makes it possible to uncover information in an incredibly short period of time. It also makes it possible to find thousands of websites with absolutely no credible information. A Helium writer is obligated to do the best he or she is capable of to ensure accurate information.

My advice to other Helium members on the ethics of sourcing information for use in articles;

1). Know what Helium writing standards are, and adhere to them. Click on the User Guide link at the bottom of every Helium page for more information.

2). Use caution when researching, all websites are not created equal.

Learn more about this author, Tina Hartley.
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