May 22, 2002

MATTHEW HOY IS backpedaling (his own word) from charges that Kathleen Parker stole a column from the Blogosphere. I think he's right to do so, and honorable to admit it.

Charges of plagiarism -- or even idea theft, which isn't quite the same -- are serious stuff, not to be made lightly. Playfully pointing out parallels is one thing. But don't let the thrill of "catching" someone cause you to create a crime where none exists.