(09-21-2024, 12:41 PM)MilkmanConspiracy Wrote: Is it ok to reject an edit on Long Runner Lineup that consists of apparently original content, but frequently follows the formatting of an equivalent page on the other tropes wiki?
I’m at a bit of a loss because:
- New (accurate) information is injected into the edit that isn’t present in what I suspect is being paraphrased. This is the biggest green flag for me, because it indicates some level of knowledge on what is being written about.
- The structure is very similar, more than what I would expect from original writing, which is the biggest red flag for me. That said, It’s a pre-fork page being updated, and that may just be the logical progression.
Make a reasoned judgment call. The use of certain bare facts alone is not altogether bad, there is only so many ways to render basic facts. That said, a glance at their history shows they have been called on the carpet before for copying, so I'd err on the side of caution. In this case, I'd say you have enough reasonable doubt to reject the edit and admonish the user. If they keep this pattern up, temp bans of whatever length you deem proper (a week to a month) can be instituted to get the message across we do not tolerate plagiarism. If they consistently prove defiant, several months can be added (three to six) if you really need to get the message across, and if they sock or react badly to your being responsible, you have the power to block indefinitely if need be, but only go that far if they dig in their heels with defiance.
Given our nonprofit situation, it is entirely reasonable to err on the side of safety, and if they refuse to explain themselves and keep going with concerning behavior of this nature, they feel free to take whatever measures are needed to get the message across. If things still look unclear, asking us is wise of you and we can handle it if we need to. For now, reject the edit and demand a proper explanation. If they refuse to give it and/or acknowledge the concerns and keep going with obvious plagiarism, consider the question answered and drop a long tempban and send them a message this to give them time to reconsider their actions. If it gets worse from here and/or they sockpuppet, then feel free to be as harsh as need be to get the point across.