Chapter 4: Defining Corruption

A study of corruption must begin with an agreement as to what we mean by corruption. This is perhaps the most difficult issue to confront in any study of corruption—to agree on a construct that defines this area of study. In this regard, we are simply acknowledging what has been said in much of the literature (Deflem, 1995). However, there is no universal agreed definition as to what the term, corruption, means. This chapter searches out a definition of corruption suitable to both public management and law; drawing upon the legal constructs applicable to those jurisdictions that base their laws mainly on the common law of England. The chapter examines the literature, case law and legislation on the subject, and concludes that corruption is the illicit use of office for private gain contrary to the established and accepted law, regulations or rules for holding that office.