Complicated question. Obviously don't full-on steal someone else's work or read a story and then write one that totally mirrors it with just the wording switched around a bit, but other than that I'd say give credit when we can, and not get too worked up about little things.

Isn't it just?

Yes, I figured the same thing. I credit when I remember where it's from or mention that "so and so" wasn't my idea, and in the case that made me ask this question, I actually asked the author and got a positive response so that's all solved, but in general I suppose a course of action will have to be carefully considered, but the leas tone can do is give credit where it's due.

Thank you for sharing your thoughts with me!