An assessment of the ethical dimensions that impact on corruption

2006

This paper addresses the ethical dimensions of corruption. Corruption in the form of bribery is widespread in the developing world and this includes Mauritius. Corruption assessed in absolute terms is unethical. However, if one were to use relativistic views, one would make allowances for ‘mild’ forms of corruption like seeking favours to obtain unwarranted advantages or paying bribes in the form of ‘speed-up gratuities’. Our study shows that in many contexts, acts of corruption are accepted and justified either on the basis of the gains they bring to the individual who offered the bribe or undertake to seek the particular favour. It depends on the values prevailing in particular societies,…