Navigating plagiarism in social science research: Epistemic re-framing or unethical redundancy?

Abstract

Social science research is an intricate culmination of knowledge construction. Because the research fields of the social sciences are human, their relations, behaviors, and methodologies are notably unique compared to those of the natural sciences, and so are ethical issues. Publishing novel ideas or information is a primary focus of any academic institution and publisher. However, social scientists often face the dilemma of ethical conduct in research. Therefore, guidelines from both the academic and publisher perspectives are necessary. Considering the importance of knowledge about plagiarism, this editorial aims to sensitize prospective scientific contributors and early-career researchers, reviewers, editors, and publishers. To craft this paper, a review of pertinent literature is made, followed by a sharing of the issues that Dhaulagiri Journal of Sociology and Anthropology (DJSA), and its contributors, including the editorial board, encountered regarding an issue of plagiarism and ethical integrity in research practice. This editorial also serves as the Plagiarism Policy Guideline for the DJSA. The major findings There are new evolving challenges of plagiarism with the increasing use of AI in research and publication. This editorial elaborates on the types of plagiarism and their consequences for publication outcomes, as well as on variation in plagiarism-coping strategies. The ultimate aim is to promote and maintain ethical standards, so we conclude that it is primarily the authors’ responsibility, followed by reviewers and the editorial board, to uphold the highest standards of research ethics by being familiar with the issue of plagiarism in scientific publications.