Corruption v. Good Governance

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Juris Doctor

Corruption is roundly recognized as a major impediment to democracy, sustainable economic development, human rights, and the rule of law. In June 2021, the fight against corruption was even pronounced as a core American national security interest. Understanding the obstacles to good governance—and the role that corruption plays—is thus an important topic for political and economic practitioners. This class begins by examining what governments are expected to provide their citizens today to better understand where corruption leads to governance failures. It surveys various definitions of corruption and controversies over how to measure and evaluate it. The course then explores different theories and typologies of governance and corruption, examining why various scholars consider some states to exhibit more corruption than others and the ramifications for state development. Questions over how corruption affects gender, religion, and culture—as well as how corruption is affected by these human facets—are also assessed. The course will analyze the effects of poor governance on economic development, international security, checks and balances, and the private sector. Illicit financial flows and money laundering will also be considered. Additionally, a variety of international, state, sub-state, and individual efforts to counter corruption will be assessed.