Public corruption does real harm, often to people just like you. When those in governmental power abuse their offices for any of the many reasons defined in this course, then citizens are always hurt, whether from higher prices, lower living standards, threats to personal safety and freedom, or greater national security risks. The perpetrators of public corruption in all its forms strive to take advantage of the many to serve the few. That runs counter to the idea of American democracy of, by, and for the people. Indeed, in some times and places, entire governments have been effectively captured by corrupt groups. There are many laws against public corruption, but constant pressure from citizens is the key to ensuring they are enforced.
“The time to guard against corruption and tyranny is before they shall have gotten hold of us. It is better to keep the wolf out of the fold than to trust to drawing his teeth and talons after he shall have entered.”
– Thomas Jefferson, 1785
“If we do not provide against corruption, our government will soon be at an end; nor would I wish to put a man of virtue in the way of temptation.”—George Mason, Virginia delegate to the Constitutional Convention, 1787
Overwhelmingly, most people are honest. Even so, there are always some immoral people who will seek advantage over others if they believe the gains outweigh the costs of getting caught. We review below what kinds of people are typically involved, some of the most common gains and costs, and the way that democracy or the lack of it can shape how people see those gains and costs.
This short course is arranged in three parts: an introduction to the topic and how the U.S. stacks up in comparison to other countries, a review of what affects the costs and benefits of public corruption, and ways that you can contribute to the fight against corruption. You can read through the entire course or use the menu below to skip to those topics that interest you the most. There are also two annexes with lists of types of corruption and laws against corruption.
