Corruption in Today's World

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2011:

This subject focuses on definitions, types and theories of corruption, and on its political, social and economic effects in various parts of the world, particularly since the 1980s. The subject asks students to problematise the concept of corruption in terms of its varied meanings in different cultures, and to distinguish it from concepts such as organised crime, shadow economy, and political sleaze. One major issue considered is the extent to which corruption can delegitimise political systems. The subject will explore cultural diversity in interpretations of corruption, and the extent to which different cultural and systemic factors appear to exacerbate or reduce corruption. There will be a particular focus on the possible connections between corruption and neo-liberalism. On completion, students should have a sophisticated understanding of corruption in the contemporary world, what causes it, how it is measured, and how it is combated. Students should also be able to provide an advanced cost-benefit analysis of corruption in political, economic and social terms.

• be able to problematise the concept and study of corruption, especially in the comparative context.
• be able to evaluate each of the methods suggested in the literature for assessing the scale and nature of corruption in particular countries or regions.
• be able to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the major methods proposed in the literature for combating corruption.
• be able to outline and evaluate the debates on the possible benefits of corruption.
• be able to provide a sophisticated critique of the major contemporary theories of the causes of corruption.

5 x 500 word briefing papers, each worth 10% due throughout the semester, and a 2,500 word essay worth 50% due at the end of semester.

Hurdle Requirement: Students are required to attend a minimum of 75% of classes in order to qualify to have their written work assessed. Students who fail to meet this hurdle requirement will be deemed ineligible to submit the final piece of assessment for this subject. Regular participation in class is required.

Assessment submitted late without an approved extension will be penalised at 2% per working day. In-class tasks missed without approval will not be marked. All pieces of written work must be submitted to pass this subject.

A subject reader will be available for purchase from the University Bookshop.

• Political Corruption: Concepts and Contexts (2001) (A. Heidenheimer & M Johnston (eds))

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

• be able to apply research skills and critical methods.
• be able to develop persuasive arguments.
• able to communicate oral and written arguments and ideas effectively.