In philosophical, theological, or moral discussions, corruption is spiritual or moral impurity or deviation from an ideal. Corruption entails many forms including bribery and embezzlement. Government corruption occurs when an elected representative makes decisions that are influenced by vested interest rather than their own personal or party ideological beliefs.
This article deals with the commonplace use of the term corruption to mean dishonest or fraudulent conduct by those in power.
Read more about Corruption: Etymology, Different Scales, Different Sectors, Different Methods, Legality, Philosophy
Famous quotes containing the word corruption:
“The corruption of the age is produced by the individual contribution of each one of us; some contribute treachery, others injustice, irreligion, tyranny, avarice, cruelty, in accordance with their greater power; the weaker ones bring stupidity, vanity, passivity, and I am one of them.”
—Michel de Montaigne (1533–1592)
““Our earth is degenerate in these latter days. Bribery and corruption are common. Children no longer obey their parents. . . . The end of the world is evidently approaching.” Sound familiar? It is, in fact, the lament of a scribe in one of the earliest inscriptions to be unearthed in Mesopotamia, where Western civilization was born.”
—C. John Sommerville (20th century)
“Blest paper-credit! last and best supply!
That lends corruption lighter wings to fly!”
—Alexander Pope (1688–1744)