Theories of Institutional Corruption

Posted: 17 Jun 2018

See all articles by Dennis F. Thompson

Dennis F. Thompson

Harvard University - Department of Government; Harvard University - Harvard Kennedy School (HKS)

Date Written: May 2018

Abstract

Normative theorists of corruption have developed an institutional conception that is distinct from both the individualist approaches focused on quid pro quo exchanges and other institutional approaches found in the literature on developing societies. These theorists emphasize the close connection between patterns of corruption and the legitimate functions of institutions. The corruption benefits the institution while undermining it. Reforms therefore should be directed toward finding alternatives for the functions the corruption serves. Also, institutional corruption does not require that its perpetrators have corrupt motives, and it is not limited to political institutions. This review examines four leading theories and discusses criticisms of their approach. A tripartite framework for analyzing the elements of institutional corruption is proposed. Although the theories are useful for distinguishing institutional corruption from the more familiar forms of individual corruption, they could be enriched by giving greater attention to the work on individual corruption in its structural forms in developing societies.

Suggested Citation

Thompson, Dennis F., Theories of Institutional Corruption (May 2018). Annual Review of Political Science, Vol. 21, pp. 495-513, 2018, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3197111 or http://dx.doi.org/10.1146/annurev-polisci-120117-110316

Dennis F. Thompson (Contact Author)

Harvard University - Department of Government ( email )

1737 Cambridge Street
Cambridge, MA 02138
United States

Harvard University - Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) ( email )

79 John F. Kennedy Street
Cambridge, MA 02138
United States

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