UNDERSTANDING CORRUPTION: WHY CORRUPTION EXISTS AND THE INSTITUTIONAL REFORMS NEEDED TO LESSEN ITS PRESENCE IN GOVERNMENT.

Embargo until
Date
2019-08-21
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Johns Hopkins University
Abstract
This thesis aims to provide insight into why corruption exists in government and how to prevent it from happening. Corruption, bribery, and the slew of illicit activities that accompany abuse of public office is a central problem that has negative political, economic, and social consequences. This research investigates several key aspects of how corruption presents itself in government and how to best combat this issue. The dominant theories present on anti-corruption are assessed through the use of case study analysis in order to identify strengths and weaknesses that may be used in future anti-corruption policies. First, an investigation on motives behind corruption finds that both personal and cultural motives influence an individual’s likelihood of engaging in corruption. Second, this paper reviews both indirect and direct anti-corruption methods. The research finds that direct, or targeted, methods are most necessary in creating a legitimate government that is free of corruption. Lastly, a review of formal anti-corruption legislation finds that the law’s overall applicability and utility within a government’s existing framework is central to ensuring the success and effectiveness of anti-corruption laws and regulations. The findings from this research provide crucial insight into the most influential aspects of corruption. This information should thus be used in practice to create strong and effective anti-corruption provisions.
Description
Keywords
anti-corruption, Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, corruption
Citation