  == The Wikipedia idiot's guide to documenting plagiarism/inspiration/similarities to other work ==  Since this subject comes up time and time again, please read the points here before editing the article/starting a section on the discussion page:  #For something to be considered an inspiration, then the work in question has to be formally credited or acknowledged by a representative of the production.  Just because Avatar seemingly rips off an obscure 70s book doesn't actually mean that anyone involved in the production has read it. An inspiration is a concession or formal acknowledgement that somebody's elses work influenced you. #If an author makes a claim that his work has been plagiarized, or indeed someone else makes such a claim, then it is potentially libellous if there is no legal validation.  An accusation of plagiarism is an accusation of theft, and in unproven cases possibly defamatory.  If someone's work has been plagiarised the rights holder always has the option to sue, and Wikipedia should only document such claims if there is comprehensive coverage though reliable sources. #If someone writes about similarities to other works then this is solely critical reception, and belongs in the appropriate section.  They are stating their own personal view in regards to how it relates to other works.  Like all critical reception, inclusion is based on the expertise of the person publishing the opinion, and the coverage of such a view. #You've read that obscure 70s book, and feel like it's your mission in life to let the world know what a rip-off merchant James Cameron is.  I'm sorry, but only points of view publsihed in reliable sources are permitted.  I doubt James Cameron cares what you think, Wikipedia certainly doesn't, and heck I'd even wager your own mother doesn't give a shit.  You can find the relevant policies at WP:VERIFIABILITY, WP:ORIGINAL RESEARCH, WP:NPOV.   