Ethics

Unit 2: Critical Analysis

Public Corruption

Amanda Laster

CJ340 Applied Criminal Justice Ethics

July 20, 2011

Abstract

Corruption is everywhere and in many forms and is a world – wide crisis. Its successful transfer is through steering media of money or power, side stepping the legally prescribed procedure to regulate the relation. Corruption is not a matter of partners in crime, but of criminal partnership or legal regulation of interaction. In this essay I will be discussing my personal opinions based on the facts I obtained from the research I did on corruption.

Global Corruption

“Corruption is a Western concept and is not applicable to traditional societies, where corruption does not have such a negative meaning. Many traditional societies with a “gift culture” have a different understanding of civil responsibilities and etiquette. The social structure and political traditions of many countries are based on the beneficial exchange of rewards for services rendered, and cannot survive in its absence.” (idebate, 2006).

That statement comes from the pro side but I have to disagree with the fact that we don’t know if the Western concept will never be applicable to the traditional societies. I think it is all about perception and how things are viewed. So if the traditional societies are only taking the positives in consideration that could change and the negatives could start to play a role, I think then they would have to look more at the risks involved and if the gain is worth it. I do believe that if you look at the positives (benefits, gains etc.) that people get so adapt to having and some even rely on the benefits but if those rewards were not in the picture it, I don’t feel corruption would survive at least to the level in which it is at now. After reading idebate.org and the pro’s and con’s on this particular section you can tell this is an endless debate that has gone on for years with a whole lot of depth and each side makes valid...