Introduction
The definition of corruption has always remained relative without any distinct boundary on activities that would be described as corrupt. The particular reasons behind this scenario are hard to discern. First, it is not possible to exactly determine the intention of offering gifts and financial incentives towards an individual, and second, the definition of corruption and lobbying override the other and as such, it is virtually impossible to classify actions in terms of either legalized or corrupt action. It, therefore, remains one of the greatest global challenges. According to Transparency International (2010), corruption refers to the “non-transparent or politically connected type of business that is associated with the abuse of power.”
Corruption as Cultural Tradition
I support the definition of corruption in cultural contexts. This is because the historical definition of corruption has been laced and encompassed within the cultural tradition. The very act of corruption traces its roots from historical activities that were sought to gain favor or an upper hand in business or legal matters. In addition to the above, the cultural tradition of gift offering draws its origin from centuries-long ago and has remained an entrenched practice in many societies globally. According to Delattre (2002), “in socialism corruption was almost legal; it was the period of corruption.” This means that corruption as a wider topic of concern to most people has its roots in the cultural aspect of socialism and formed a fundamental aspect of the cultural aspect of human life.
Corruption as a cultural tradition is a notion that is widely supported by literature on sociology and development studies. According to Gyekye (1997), “the Cultural tradition of gift giving; a culture of corruption has always existed in this region.” Such assertions point to the fact that corruption has been with humanity as a destructive social aspect of life for centuries. Whereas it can be ascertained that corruption was an entrenched part and parcel of human social culture, recent laws and regulations on corruption-related crimes have placed limits on the types of social activities and gifts that are excluded in the bracket of corruption. Potential benefits can then be brought about by the limitation of such practices.
Counterarguments on Corruption as Cultural Tradition
Whereas several pieces of literature abide in the definition of corruption as a cultural problem, other works of literature offer contradicting arguments on this assertion. The proponents of this counterarguments position assert that corruption-related problems as a result of the loosening social fabric of society that has been precipitated by capitalism. In their definition, Corruption as Cultural Tradition is a confusing term. The offering of expensive gifts and rewards began a long time ago and was a healthy practice that was used as a form of appreciation to foster long-term relationships. Such cultures have been influenced and affected by capitalism and individualism where “one man wants all”. The desire to influence to one advantage is, therefore, greater in a capitalistic society.
Gift-Giving Traditions
Gift-giving traditions in many parts of the world have been used to provide a perfect opportunity for the rich while alienating the poor. Unscrupulous officials in political systems can take advantage of people in the name of tradition to foster their interest at the expense of the masses. This has generated high levels of corruption in society. The underlying factor to stem out the confusion between culture and definition must focus on the separation of the two.
References
Delattre, E.J. (2002). Character and cops: ethics in policing. Washington: American Enterprise Institute.
Gyekye, K. (1997). Tradition and modernity: philosophical reflections on the African experience. New York: Oxford University Press
Transparency International (2010). Frequently Asked Questions about Corruption. Web.