ChemCannon now rescinds its decision to participate

Dr. Malcolm J. DSouza's picture

After perusing through several of the previous blog-entries on this platform we found too many instances (~73% of the ~85 blogs randomly selected) of clear plagiarism and in fact, a number of bloggers openly claimed authorship (unbelievable!) in their comments-section.  Since, there are no clearly well-defined ‘penalties’ and since a number of these unrepentant ‘serial’ plagiarizers are current participants – I strongly feel that our name (Wesley) should not be associated (as active participants) with this activity.  I have however asked my students to periodically post comments & blogs not of a professional nature, but on activities that the other (predominantly Indian) students can relate to.  Such entries will mutually benefit students on either side of the globe.  This exercise has made me uncomfortable especially the fact that a number of participating faculty seem resistant to change and I am beginning to have a change of opinion of the Indian education system (unfortunate, but true).  At the same time, there are a number of faculty members willing to change their ways, so there is some hope.  However, as a former editor of an international journal and an active participant in the refereeing process for peer-reviewed journals, I find this type of behavior abhorrent.  I joined this venture hoping (and I believe we would have) to make an impact – but with so many unresolved ethical issues, it’s time to quit.... 


I spent my formative years in Bombay (Mumbai) India.  Growing up in a financially impoverished environment was arduous.  I remember having to study on the roof-top (due to a noisy environment) and spend nights studying in a garden under a street-light.  My parents being uneducated were not too supportive of such activities.  I realize that a number of you are (were) in a similar situation and can relate to such a struggle.  I somehow managed to muddle my way through the system to get admitted to a US institution of higher education.  My parents borrowed money (~Rs. 7,000 at the time) and I entered the US knowing absolutely no one (realize that there was no web-access & the telephone connections were a disaster).  I am not proud of my initial years here (probably partied a bit too much) however, I seized every 'break' that was tossed my way and the rest is history...


Pharmainfo.net has now provided a forum where you can sharpen your analytical ability and technical writing skills....Use it (do not abuse it)!


 


 


 


 


 

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