Context:
I was answering this question on SO, and have run into a rather sticky situation.
The question was a pretty trivial one, but the asker introduced some edge case conditions after I had posted my answer, and it took me a while to figure out a solution that fulfilled that requirement. I finally got to an answer that worked, posted it, and all was well in the world.
Problem:
Except that another person had arrived at a similar, (although more thorough) solution while I had been fiddling with mine. This person then left a comment accusing me of ripping off his answer. I realize that I have nothing but my word to give, but please believe me when I say I did not even look at the other answer before posting mine. It was simply a logical progression of what I already had.
I have failed to convince this person that I did not copy the answer, and the simplest course of action would be to simply delete my answer and move on, reasoning that I don't need the trivial amount of rep I was getting from that answer anyway. But it just leaves a bad taste in my mouth that I should be guilty until proven innocent. What is the correct course of action in circumstances like this?
EDIT 1:
Evidently the other user has deleted their answer while I was typing this. I am not sure whether it is appropriate to name them.
EDIT 2:
To make this question more general than just me having hissy fit about being called names, here is what I would like to know, specifically:
- If you are accused of plagiarism, should you just delete your answer and walk away?
- Are there any repercussions to such accusations that you should worry about (disciplinary bans or restrictions etc.)