if I copy some body content ???

You are confusing copyright with copywriting.

To answer your question: Yes, generally, it is unethical to take someone's work.

It's a bit different when you are quoting something, however, because you're creating a discussion and citing a source.

Just put where you found the information, the author, and give the author credit. So it doesn't seem like you came up it.


When you copy some ones work, it crosses the legal boundries. Come up with original ideas and create your own content.

It seems this topic is coming up quite a bit lately. And while at first I found it disturbing, I'm glad people are asking the question rather than simply going out and stealing other people's work.

If you come up with your own idea and write it your way, you should be OK. However, make sure your spin is indeed original. If copied words or ideas make up the majority of your work, it's still plagiarism.

Actually, that depends on how much of the information you quote/reprint. And even if you cite your source it could still be copyright infringement, illegal, and set you up for a lawsuit. Simply naming your source doesn't necessarily give you the right to reprint it. If you want to do that, your best bet is to contact the original publisher and seek permission. Many will grant it so long as you give proper credit. But then again, some won't.

If you want to use the original material (under the Fair Use provision of U.S. copyright law), there are some rules. I suggest you read the info on these pages before you do so:

• U.S. Copyright Office - Fair Use
• Wikipedia - Fair Use
• Plagiarism 101: What is Plagiarism?

And before you simply decide to use it anyway, consider this: Many writers and copywriters -- including me and my clients -- regularly check to ensure our work is not being stolen. And we're fully prepared to take legal action should we discover someone has done so. After all, we worked hard to create that original content.

Hope this helps!
Len