Introduction

Corruption, no doubt, is regarded as one of the modern evils. It is carried out by those with a criminal intention and motivated by greed. Yet, if this simple explanation were valid, why would we have to face in reality some disturbing counterexamples? Why, in particular, do we face a significant pattern where corrupt people tend to be involved in a variety of charitable institutions? Why do many bribers and bribees engage in an assortment of regular business transactions and political initiatives where they are regarded as trustworthy and honest partners? Our viewpoint of them as criminals contradicts their social engagement. The trust they enjoy in their regular relations sounds rather controversial, given their misuse of entrusted power.

A straightforward argument would, certainly, point out that corrupt actors must be entrusted with power before misusing it. There must be opportunities for corrupt misbehavior. These opportunities commonly arise where public office holders are in a monopoly position, have discretion in interpreting, applying, or changing the law, and lack accountability (Klitgaard 1988: 75).