Description
Book SynopsisFrom being largely ignored in research, corruption has recently become one of the most important social issues. Yet defining corruption has resulted in profound disagreement. This book presents a bold and innovative solution to this problem, which will appeal to students of political theory, political philosophy, sociology and social anthropology.
Trade Review'At a time when the anti-corruption movement is in need of critical self-assessment, Rothstein and Varraich offer an important analysis. We know we do not want corruption - but what do we want? Can we, and should we, disentangle corruption from the many other related difficulties undermining the well-being of people and societies in many parts of the world? How do we know where corruption is worst, and whether our reforms are helping, hurting, or having any effects at all? Scholars and policy makers alike will find the insights offered by Rothstein and Varraich essential as their anti-corruption work enters new phases.' Michael Johnston, Colgate University, New York
'Defining the core issue as one of the quality of government and the idea that a non-corrupt government is 'based on the principle of impartiality in the exercise of public power,' [Rothstein and Varraich] relate the theory of corruption to real world problems. This is a small book, dense in its coverage of issues of philosophy, sociology, and political science, but it will probably cause anyone who has glibly used the term to have second thoughts and, hopefully, rethink their core assumptions.' E. V. Schneier, CHOICE
Table of ContentsPreface and acknowledgements; 1. Corruption and the relevance of political science; 2. Mapping related disciplines; 3. The evolution of corruption as a concept; 4. Corruption and human rights; 5. Corruption and clientelism; 6. Corruption and patronage; 7. Corruption and patrimonialism; 8. Corruption, state capture and political particularism; 9. The Chinese exception and alternative; 10. In conclusion: what is the opposite of corruption?; Bibliography.
