Copying someone elses code ethical, nonethical, legal...

How ethical or non-ethical is to look at someone's code and use it? How much of someone's code can you legally use? 30%, 49%, 50%, 100%?

man rui

How ethical or non-ethical is to look at someone's code and use it? How much of someone's code can you legally use? 30%, 49%, 50%, 100%?

man rui

I would at least ask, it's nice to get a little recognition for it at least.. If you see any of my stuff that you like, help yourself.

For the most part, unless you are talking about using a technique (say, * { margin: 0; padding: 0} or .hiddenText { text-indent: -9999px; overflow: hidden; }), the blatant copying and pasting of code is immoral and illegal. Just not easily prosecuted. ;)

I'd say the rule of thumb should be, if you're not sure about it, ask. If they say no, don't.

How about color combination?

Man Rui

Color combination isnt really unethical because its kind of like music, if you use the same notes as someone else and change them up than its not unethical. I would be pleased if someone had liked my color scheme so much they would want to use it. I use alot of code from dhtmlgoodies (http://www.dhtmlgoodies.com) but i always give them credit in the source code. I think that there is nothing you can do about any one taking or using code, just embrase it and take it as a compliment!!

I'll throw in my own two cents here since I have had sites stolen before: Never steal, but it's ok to use someone else's work for inspiration. Inspire yourself, but create your own original work. I have had people steal my site word for word, and that sucks!