article syndication and duplicate content

room for algo improvement

[arun_g]

This topic is spurred by the increased attempt to isolate duplicate content.
For articles that are re-printed on the Inernet with due credits in form of a resource box, such an attempt could be flawed and in fact detrimental.
While I appreciate that there is no value in reproducing duplicate pages for a search in such a case, but the backlinks in such articles should NOT be negated. In fact, they should be 'rewarded'.
Reason: If a number of websites are reproducing an article from a website, it genuinely increases the "authority" status of that website. Recognizing true authorities forms one of the basis of G's algo.
By negating the value of such a link just because the content is a duplicate works at cross purposes IMHO.
I would greatly appreciate views of the experienced members of this forum.

[jeremy goodrich]

Syndication helps in a number of ways, not just in links, but branding, traffic, and there can be SEO benefits as well.

No need to worry about it, consider that WebmasterWorld has been syndicating RSS for years...and, afaik, Brett hasn't had any problems by doing it :)

[arun_g]

Thank you Jeremy,
I have no doubt relating to the advantages of syndication (and I am further motivated by your advice). I also know there are no negative SEO effects of syndication.
I was just wondering why there should not be a POSITIVE advantage provided in the algo (as opposed to the current disregarding of duplicate content) because it will help in the better identification of authority websites.
But I understand my post is more in the nature of a suggestion for algo improvement rather than a *problem*, so please pardon any transgressions.